Ancient Rome

LET'S PRACTICE

The first Romans lived in the city of Rome over a thousand years ago. They had a strong army and took over many countries. Every Roman town had a  big open space where people met, heard the latest news and went shopping.

In Rome, there were rich people, poor people and slaves. The most powerful person was the emperor. The emperor ruled over all Roman lands.

People captured in a battle were often sold as slaves. Rich Romans bought slaves to do hard work for them.

Most Roman men and women dressed up in long, flowing pieces of material.  Important men draped a huge piece of material over their tunic. It was called a toga. Only the emperor was allowed to dress all in purple.

The streets of Rome were often packed with people. Vehicles were only allowed at night. Rich Romans were carried in boxes called litters.

In Roman times, people didn't wash at home. They went to the public baths. 

                                     

The Romans used to worship gods and goddesses.

The Romans built many amazing things, such as temples, ships and aqueducts.

Only sons of rich Romans went to school in Roman times. Girls didn't go to school. They got married at a very young age.

The Romans had a very powerful army made up of thousands of soldiers. 

For a fun day out, Romans went to the games or to the races. The games took place un a big roun stadium. Slaves called gladiators fought each other. Many gladiators were killed in fights at the games. At charriot races, men rode in carts pulled by horses.