Library Guides: Ancient Rome: Home

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Beginning in the eighth century B.C., Ancient Rome grew from a small town on central Italy's Tiber River into an empire that at its peak encompassed most of Europe and large swathes of Africa. Ancient Rome left a lasting legacy long after its fall, and influences a lot of our life today. Click through the tabs above and the resources below to learn more about Ancient Rome and the legacy it left behind.

Ancient Rome (National Geographic, n.d.)
Some say the city of Rome was founded on the Palatine Hill by Romulus, son of Mars, the god of war. Others say that Aeneas and some of his followers escaped the fall of Troy and established the town. Regardless of which of the many myths one prefers, no one can doubt the impact of ancient Rome on western civilization. A people known for their military, political, and social institutions, the ancient Romans conquered vast amounts of land in Europe and northern Africa, built roads and aqueducts, and spread Latin, their language, far and wide. Read through the resources in this collection to learn more.
Ancient Rome (World History Encyclopaedia, 2009, September 2)
This article provides an in-depth look into the history of Rome, from the different legends surrounding its foundation, right through to the height of Empire.
10 facts about Ancient Rome (National Geographic Kids, n.d.)
Discover the glory of Ancient Rome with these ten top facts.
Ancient Rome (Ducksters, n.d.)
Ancient Rome was a powerful and important civilization that ruled much of Europe for nearly 1000 years. The culture of Ancient Rome was spread throughout Europe during its rule. As a result, Rome's culture still has an impact in the Western world today. The basis for much of Western culture comes from Ancient Rome, especially in areas such as government, engineering, architecture, language, and literature. Read through this website to learn more.
A beginner's guide to Ancient Rome (Khan Academy, n.d.)
In legend Rome was founded in 753 B.C.E. by Romulus, its first king. In 509 B.C.E. Rome became a republic ruled by the Senate (wealthy landowners and elders) and the Roman people. During the 450 years of the republic Rome conquered the rest of Italy and then expanded into France, Spain, Turkey, North Africa and Greece. Read through this online learning module to learn more.
Ancient Rome exhibition (British Museum, n.d.)
The objects in Room 70 illustrate the rise of Rome from a small town to an imperial capital that controlled the Mediterranean basin and north-western Europe and the Near East, extending from Scotland to Syria. Use this online tour to virtually visit the exhibit.
Romans (BBC, n.d.)
Mad emperors, brutal entertainments and lascivious lifestyles. These are the familiar images of ancient Rome, but what was it really like? Read through these resources to learn more, especially about Roman Britain.
Ancient Rome history (Maria Milani, n.d.)
Through these pages you can reach many different aspects of Ancient Rome. The task of covering all aspects of a millennium of the civilisation of ancient Rome is almost impossibly big but this website includes as many of the salient features as possible and a good number of curiosities.
The Roman Empire
This website provides a rapidly increasing collection of resources on the history of Roman empire. The content covers a vast number of subjects, such as its founding, religion, army, emperors, and more.

Aqueduct: a manmade channel used for delivering water to Roman towns. Public fountains and baths made water available to everyone. Wealthy Romans had running water in their homes.

Barbarian: a term used by the Romans to refer to people who lived outside the Roman Empire.

Censor: a government official who counted the people of Rome. He also was responsible for public morality and some of the government finances.

Century: a division of the Roman army made up of 80 soldiers and led by a centurion.

Circus: a large oval shaped stadium used for chariot races.

Citizen: a Roman citizen had certain rights and privileges including the right to vote. Only freeborn men were fully Roman citizens.

Cohort: a cohort was a division of the Roman army. It was made up of six centuries or 480 men. There were 10 cohorts in a Roman legion.

Consul: the highest position in the Roman government. There were two consuls elected each year for a one year term.

Dictator: a ruler that has absolute power.

Dynasty: when a family passes down the leadership of a country from generation to generation.

Emperor: the leader of an empire. The first emperor of Rome was Augustus.

Forum: the area of a Roman town that was the centre of Roman life. Government meetings, public speeches, and business all took place in the forum.

Fresco: a painting made on a freshly plastered wall. The paint would be absorbed into the plaster as it dried.

Gaul: what the Romans called the lands to the north and west of Italy.

Gladiator: a person who fought for the entertainment of Roman audiences. Gladiators sometimes fought to the death.

Gladius: a short sword used by Roman soldiers.

Legion: the main unit of the Roman army. It generally had around 5400 soldiers and was divided up into groups of men called cohorts and centuries.

Mosaic: a type of art using small tiles made of glass or stone to create a picture.

Orator: a talented public speaker. This was an important skill for Roman leaders.

Paterfamilias: the man who was leader of the Roman family. He had complete power over his wife and children.

Patrician: a member of the original elite land-owning families of Rome.

Plebeian: a common person or person not of the patrician class.

Praetor: a high ranking official in the Roman government.

Province: an area of the Roman empire that was outside Italy.

Quaestor: an official of the Roman government who supervised various financial affairs.

Republic: a country where the government is run by elected officials rather than by a king or emperor.

Rhetoric: the art of public speaking used to inform, motivate, or persuade an audience.

Senate: a group of prestigious men who advised the consuls. In most cases the consuls did what the Senate recommended.

Tribune: an elected representative of the Plebeian Council. Tribunes could veto laws made by the Senate.

Toga: a long robe worn by Roman citizens. It was generally white with colour markings for high ranking officials.

	The History of Rome A weekly podcast tracing the history of the Roman Empire, beginning with Aeneas's arrival in Italy and ending with the exile of Romulus Augustulus, last Emperor of the Western Roman Empire. Now complete!
	The Fall of Rome Barbarians, political breakdown, economic collapse, mass migration, pillaging and plunder. The fall of the Roman Empire has been studied for years, but genetics, climate science, forensic science, network models, and globalization studies have reshaped our understanding of one of the most important events in human history. PhD historian and specialist Patrick Wyman brings the cutting edge of history to listeners in plain, relatable English.
	The Partial Historians Dr Rad and Dr G explore all things ancient Rome. With source analysis, interviews with experts, and looking at how the ancient world appears in popular culture, they take you you through the sources for ancient Rome while having a good laugh along the way.
	Emperors of Rome “Great empires are not maintained by timidity.” - Tacitus. A podcast series looking at the rulers of the ancient Roman empire, by Dr Rhiannon Evans, Dr Caillan Davenport and Matt Smith.
	When in Rome A regular podcast series about place and space in the ancient Roman Empire.

100 facts on Ancient Rome by Fiona MacDonald
Publication Date: 2006
Take your seat in the arena and let the games begin! Discover everything you need to know about ancient Rome with this brilliant book. One hundred facts, fantastic illustrations and hilarious cartoons give you the inside story on Roman life, while fun quizzes test your knowledge.
Ancient history atlas by Michael Grant & Arthur Banks
Publication Date: 1974
This atlas sets out to fill a widely acknowledged need for a modern, comprehensive, reasonably-priced atlas of the ancient world, and one which breaks away from the traditional emphasis upon political history. In 87 clear and informative maps the book portrays the history of ancient times from the second millennium BC to the reign of Justinian I (AD 527-65), and embraces northern Europe, Asia and Africa as well as the Mediterranean.
Ancient Roman art by Susie Hodge
Publication Date: 1997
Explores art across the ages. Full of beautiful photographs, which bring priceless works of art right into your hands. The clear text explains how changes and inventions influenced the art, as well as the beliefs that inspired the artists. You'll see how art|developed and find out what materials were available for the artists to work with. Examines the art of ancient Rome, including painting, mosaic, sculpture, and architecture.
Ancient Romans by Sarah McNeill
Publication Date: 1998
Discover everything you need to know about ancient civilisations at a glance. This guide is packed with essential facts and figures about important people and places from world history. Explore the world of the ancient Romans with the help of maps, charts, diagrams and detailed illustrations.
Ancient Romans
Publication Date: 2009
A discussion of the early Romans, including who the people were, where they lived, the rise of civilization, social structure, religion, art and architecture, science and technology, daily life, entertainment and sports. Features include timelines, fact boxes, glossary, list of recommended reading and web sites, and index.
Ancient Rome by Simon James
Publication Date: 2002
In association with the British Museum be an eyewitness to the remarkable story of ancient Rome - from its vast empire and astounding engineering feats to the menu at a Roman dinner party and the merciless gladiator fights staged in its arenas.
Ancient Rome by Giovanni di Pasquale, Matilde Bardi, Alessandro Cantucci & Stalio Studio
Publication Date: 2002
In a unique approach this book uses major works of Roman art to bring the world of the Emperors to life. Beginning with the origins of the city of Rome and its early Etruscan kings, the book then covers its expansion during the Republican period, the first Emperors, and subsequent growth. Alongside the history of the Romans, we also focus on how they lived, the gods and goddesses they worshipped, how they dressed and what they ate, and many other aspects of daily life.
Ancient Rome by Fiona MacDonald
Publication Date: 2004
From 753 BC the small city-state of Rome grew into a vast empire. Its army was the best organised and equipped that had ever been seen, and helped spread Roman culture across much of Europe. Archaeological excavations from Scotland to north Africa reveal the rich and advanced civilisation from which much of our art, politics and technology have grown.
Ancient Rome by John Malam
Publication Date: 2007
Uncovers the mysteries of the Romans. Discover where to find the Colosseum, tips on how to avoid ending up in the gladiator's ring, and where to see the best chariot racing.
Ancient Rome by Deborah Kops
Publication Date: 2005
Explores the lands, people, cultures, and conquests of ancient Rome.
Ancient Rome by Muriel L. DuBois
Publication Date: 2004
Discover the wonders of ancient Rome. Trace key points in ancient Roman civilization, from Romulus and Remus to the fall of Rome. Read about Rome's achievements in architecture and about the people, places and events that helped to shape ancient Rome.
Ancient Rome by Peter Chrisp
Publication Date: 2005
No ancient civilization has left us more art, spread over as wide an area, as that of Rome. Focusing on the beautiful remains of statues, monuments, mosaics and graves from 500 BC to AD 400, we discover how the Romans ruled themselves, the importance of the home as a display of wealth and good taste, and the brutal forms of entertainment that Romans enjoyed.
Ancient Rome : a comprehensive resource for the active study of Ancient Rome by George Moore
Publication Date: 2000
The Roman Empire is one of the greatest success stories in history, and well worthy of study by the students in our schools.
Ancient Rome : life, myth and art by Tony Allan
Publication Date: 2005
A celebration of the cultural and imaginative heritage of ancient Rome - from the magnificent architecture of the Pantheon and the Colosseum to the power of the emperors and their legions. A superb illustrated guide to the major achievements of the|ancient Romans, who through military prowess became masters first of Italy and then of much of the Western world, and whose architecture, symbolism, mythology and law-making continue to exert a worldwide influence.
Ancient Rome revealed by Peter Chrisp
Publication Date: 2003
Describes the people, places, and events of Ancient Rome, from the early days of the Republic through the High Empire period and beyond. Includes four two-page spreads with acetate overlays.
The children's illustrated encyclopedia of the ancient world by John Haywood
Publication Date: 2007
Step back into time to discover the wonders of the Stone Age, Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome the Aztecs, and Maya, the Incas, Ancient China and Ancient Japan. Expert text, special fact boxes and step-by-step projects provide fascinating historical content. With more than 3000 amazing photographs, illustrations, maps and timelines.
Clothes and crafts in Roman times by Philip Steele
Publication Date: 1997
What kind of clothes did different people wear in their everyday lives and on special occasions? See how people prepared for a festival. From the descriptions of the times and from evidence left behind, find out about the variety of materials and skills that|craftworkers used to produce clothes, jewellery and many other items. Then you can dress up, make your own craft items or prepare for a special event, as people did long ago.
The Colosseum : how it was built and how it was used by Peter Chrisp
Publication Date: 1997
Tells the extraordinary story of the ancient world's greatest amphitheatre. We read how it came to be built - to please the citizens of Rome after the monstrous vanity of the emperor Nero - and of the great feats of technology that went into its construction.|We learn about Roman attitudes to the games: why did they throw the Christians to the lions, and what did they think of the gladiators and animals who died for their entertainment?
Conquering Romans : far-out facts to impress your friends! by Nigel Crowle & Martin Chatterton
Publication Date: 2005
Why did Romans wash their clothes in wee? What happened when the Sacred Chickens ate cake? Why did slaves 'hold the vomit bowl' for greedy Roman diners? If you're bursting to know the answers to these questions, you'll need to read this book! You'll find oodles of flabbergasting facts to impress your family, your friends and your teachers.
Emperors and gladiators by Anita Ganeri
Publication Date: 1997
Looks at the different kinds of jobs done by the ancient Romans, the techniques they used and their social life and customs.
The fall of empires : from glory to ruin, an epic account of history's ancient civilisations by Cormac O'Brien
Publication Date: 2009
Taking a journey through some of history's most climactic turns of fate, The Fall of Empires charts sixteen ancient empires from glory to ruin. Impeccably researched and featuring many colour photographs and drawings of locations and artifacts, this book offers a fresh, colourful look at the distant past and at the fascinating subject of imperial mortality.
Food and feasts in ancient Rome by Philip Steele
Publication Date: 1994
What kinds of food did different people eat in everyday life and on special occasions? How were meals cooked and served and when did people celebrate with feasts? Find out about the variety of foods that were produced, preserved and prepared, from the descriptions and evidence left by people at the time. Then you can try out some of the recipes for yourself for an everyday meal or a feast.
Gladiator: life and death in ancient Rome by John Malam
Publication Date: 2002
Offers an overview of life in Ancient Rome while exploring the daily training, education, and social status of Rome's gladiators.
The gladiator's secret by John Malam
Publication Date: 2003
Somewhere between Hadrian's wall and the Colosseum in Rome the story of a Roman gladiator lies undiscovered. Armed with just a single clue to his existence - a pottery bowl inscribed with his name - Joseph Richards and the team from the City Museum are about to embark on a new expedition... Be an eyewitness to the discovery of a Roman skeleton. Find out how archaeologists plan a 'dig'. Learn about the techniques and equipment they use to excavate ancient artefacts, and help solve a 2,000 year old mystery.
Gladiators and ancient Rome by Anita Ganeri
Publication Date: 2004
A fact-filled introduction to the world of gladiators.
Gods and goddesses of ancient Rome by Leon Ashworth
Publication Date: 2001
Describes the gods and goddesses of ancient times and the stories people told of them. They help us to understand how people lived, what was important to them, and what their fears were.
History makers of the Roman Empire by Penelope Scott & Susan A. Williams
Publication Date: 1995
The era of the Roman Empire (third century BC - fifth century AD) was a time of change and innovation in many areas of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. This book tells the stories of the people who made important contributions both to their own time and to the way we live today. The book is packed with quotations, artefacts, sculpture, pottery and drawings. It describes the many innovations of the era, and the brilliant, daring and sometimes ruthless people who made them happen.
Julius Caesar : great dictator of Rome by Richard Platt, John James & Jim Robins
Publication Date: 2001
A historical account of Julius Caesar, covering his personal life, political career, assassination, and the Rome of his time.
Julius Caesar : the life of a Roman General by Gary Jeffrey, Kate Petty & Sam Hadley
Publication Date: 2005
Exiled from his native Rome, Caesar returned ambitious for power. A brilliant campaigner and ruthless politician, he fought many bloody battles to expand the frontiers of Rome. Sometimes popular, often feared, he started a civil war in his quest from Roman domination.
Life in ancient Rome by Simon Adams
Publication Date: 2005
Explores the world built and run by the Romans, from Rome's legendary origins nearly 3,000 years ago, through the growth of the republic, to the height and eventual decline of the empire. Stories of the colourful characters, bloody battles and ingenious inventions that echo through the ages to influence our lives today.
The mythology book by Philip Wilkinson & James Graham
Publication Date: 2018
More than 80 classic myths retold and explained, from early creation beliefs to classical hero narratives and the recurring theme of the afterlife. ... The Mythology Book explores the compelling worlds and characters depicted in myths and legends. Delve into each myth and discover the meanings behind these stories, getting to the heart of their significance to different cultures worldwide. More than just stories, myths are testament to the amazing creativity of humans striving to explain and make sense of the world around them. Revisit your favourite myths and discover brand new ones- discover Zeus, god of the sky and ruler of the Olympian gods, Loki, the cunning trickster with a knack for causing havoc, Thor with his mighty hammer, and Hades, ruler of the underworld. Beyond the gods and goddesses of Ancient Greek, Roman, and Norse myths this book delves into the stories woven by the Australian aborigines, the Cherokee, and Aztecs, each brimming with amazing characters and insights into human existence.
Pompeii AD 79 : a city buried by a volcanic eruption by Vic Parker
Publication Date: 2006
Pompeii was in one of the most crowded parts of Italy. In the busy town there were houses, shops, workshops, a theatre, temples, sports grounds, and even a swimming pool. Then a massive volcanic eruption destroyed it all. It lay buried for centuries before diggers exposed secrets of ancient Roman life.
Pompeii and other lost cities by John Malam
Publication Date: 2011
From the destruction of Roman Pompeii to finding the Inca mountain-top city of Machu Picchu, read about famous lost cities and towns throughout the world in this visually stunning book bringing together an exciting blend of historical events and archaeological discoveries.
Roman Army by Ruth Brocklehurst, Lucy Owen, Stephen Wright & Giacinto Gaudenzi
Publication Date: 2004
The Romans were the world's first military superpower. Much of their success lay in the strength of their vast army of|highly trained, ruthlessly efficient soldiers. Discover what made the Roman legions such a force to be reckoned with and find the answers to hundreds of questions.
The Roman Empire by Martyn Whittock
Publication Date: 1991
Packed with primary and secondary sources, many in colour, all clearly captioned so that pupils can evaluate the sources themselves.
The Roman gladiators by Louise Park & Timothy Love
Publication Date: 2009
Read about gladiator battles in the Colosseum. Learn about how gladiators trained, gladiator armour and weapons, and gladiatorial games.
Roman life by John Guy
Publication Date: 1998
The history of Rome from tiny city-state to an empire and illustrated with over 100 stunning colour pictures.
The Romans by Anthony Marks, Graham Tingay, Ian Jackson & Gerald Wood
Publication Date: 1990
Describes in detail the world of the Romans from the founding of the city to the decline of the empire. It deals with aspects of everyday life in ancient Rome, as well as providing a clear historical outline of the period. Packed with colourful pictures, maps and diagrams and also includes summaries of dates for quick and easy reference.
The Romans by Fiona MacDonald
Publication Date: 2003
Detailing each culture with engaging text and stunning photographs, this series reveals the strange and bizarre secrets of civilisations that have shaped our history.
Rome the empire by Walter Robson
Publication Date: 1992
Text book covering all aspects of the Roman empire with activities and exercises. Includes photos and sources of discovery for the most common areas of Roman life.
Rotten Romans by Terry Deary & Martin Brown
Publication Date: 2007
This title follows life for folks in Roman Britain from Nasty Nero and other awful emperors, to brave Boudicca and the poor old peasants. Find out what Romans wore under their kilts, how ancient Britons made their hair spikey, and why rich Romans needed a vomitarium.
Secrets of Vesuvius : unlocking the sources from Pompeii and Herculaneum by Kate Cameron & Jenny Lawless
Publication Date: 2006
Full colour text specifically designed to meet the course requirements for the HSC ancient history core study.
See inside the ancient world by Rob Lloyd Jones & Barry Ablett
Publication Date: 2012
Travel back thousands of years to a time of pyramids, temples, and spectacular stone cities deep in the jungle. With stunning illustrations and flaps to lift, this book shows you what life was like in the ancient world.
Spartacus and his glorious gladiators by Toby Brown & Clive Goddard
Publication Date: 2004
You've probably heard of Spartacus... He is dead famous for: being quite a good gladiator; giving the Romans the run-around; and, looking an awful lot like Kirk Douglas. But have you heard that Spartacus: fought for the Romans as well as against them. This title presents the inside story in Spartacus' secret diary.
Step into the world of ancient Rome
Publication Date: 2006
Take a trip back in time to the world of ancient Rome. Lots of fascinating facts take you on an amazing journey of discovery. Explore what the ancient Romans ate and wore, what and who they fought with, and their legends, gods and heroes. Illustrated Q&As plus fact boxes give you an exciting glimpse into life in the ancient Roman world. Learn about their customs and beliefs, inventions and discoveries, and other amazing facts.
The visual dictionary of Ancient Civilizations
Publication Date: 1994
This visual dictionary looks at the art, artefacts, and architecture of the great civilisations of the ancient world, including the Egyptians, Romans, Maya, Chinese, and many more.
Warfare in the ancient world by Mark Bergin
Publication Date: 2004
Every aspect of warfare in the ancient world is explored by looking at the structures of armies and the roles of different ranks within them. Uniforms, weapon technology and the changing tactics of war are stunningly illustrated.

Ancient Rome: Home

The History of Rome

The Fall of Rome

The Partial Historians

Emperors of Rome

When in Rome