This article takes you through a historical journey of Rome—from its legendary beginnings to its rise as the center of a vast empire, and its continued influence as a beacon of culture, religion, and heritage.
The Mythical Origins of Rome
According to Roman mythology, the city was founded in 753 BCE by Romulus, who, along with his twin brother Remus, was raised by a she-wolf. This tale blends mythology with early Italic tribal histories and was later romanticized by poets like Virgil in his epic The Aeneid. The myth was crucial in shaping Rome’s identity as a city destined for greatness, with divine ancestry linking its founders to the Trojan hero Aeneas.
From Kingdom to Republic
Early Rome began as a monarchy, ruled by kings of both Latin and Etruscan origin. In 509 BCE, Romans overthrew the last king, Tarquin the Proud, and established the Roman Republic. This period marked the development of Roman institutions, including the Senate and the concept of civic duty (res publica).
The Republic faced both internal class struggles between patricians (aristocrats) and plebeians (commoners), and external threats from neighboring tribes and rival powers. However, through military strength, political reforms, and strategic alliances, Rome gradually expanded its territory across the Italian peninsula. shutdown123