Learn on PengiIMPACT California Social Studies, Grade 6Chapter 9: Rome: Republic to Empire

Lesson 1: The Founding of Rome

In this Grade 6 lesson from IMPACT California Social Studies, students explore how geography shaped the rise of Roman civilization, examining Italy's central Mediterranean location, the Tiber River, the Apennine Mountains, and the seven hills of Rome. Students also analyze the legendary origins of Rome, including the myths of Romulus and Remus and the Trojan warrior Aeneas as described in Virgil's Aeneid. The lesson builds toward understanding the sequence of events from Rome's founding through the Roman Republic's expansion across most of the Italian Peninsula.

Section 1

Geography Connects Romans to Neighbors

Key Idea

Around 1,000 BCE during the late Bronze Age, a group called the Latins settled on the Italian peninsula, a boot-shaped piece of land in the Mediterranean Sea. They built a small village that would grow into the powerful city of Rome.

Rome's location was not isolated. To the north lived a skilled civilization known as the Etruscans. In the southern part of the peninsula, the Greeks had established many colonies. This geography placed the early Romans right between two advanced cultures, setting the stage for future interaction and influence.

Section 2

Romans Tell Stories of Their Origins

Key Idea

The ancient Romans told exciting stories about how their city began. These foundation myths often featured great heroes. The most famous legend is about twin brothers, Romulus and Remus, who were supposedly raised by a wolf. The story says Romulus founded the city of Rome after a fight with his brother.

While these stories are important for understanding Roman values, historians look at evidence for the city's real start. Archaeologists have found that a group of people called the Latins built small villages on Rome's hills. Over time, these early settlements grew and joined together to become one city.

Section 3

Greek and Etruscan Cultural Influences

Key Idea

When the Romans encountered Greek settlements, they were impressed by their grand temples and public buildings.

The Romans borrowed many Greek ideas for their own architecture, using features like large columns and strong designs. This style helped make Roman cities look powerful and magnificent, reflecting the strength of their empire.

Lesson overview

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Section 1

Geography Connects Romans to Neighbors

Key Idea

Around 1,000 BCE during the late Bronze Age, a group called the Latins settled on the Italian peninsula, a boot-shaped piece of land in the Mediterranean Sea. They built a small village that would grow into the powerful city of Rome.

Rome's location was not isolated. To the north lived a skilled civilization known as the Etruscans. In the southern part of the peninsula, the Greeks had established many colonies. This geography placed the early Romans right between two advanced cultures, setting the stage for future interaction and influence.

Section 2

Romans Tell Stories of Their Origins

Key Idea

The ancient Romans told exciting stories about how their city began. These foundation myths often featured great heroes. The most famous legend is about twin brothers, Romulus and Remus, who were supposedly raised by a wolf. The story says Romulus founded the city of Rome after a fight with his brother.

While these stories are important for understanding Roman values, historians look at evidence for the city's real start. Archaeologists have found that a group of people called the Latins built small villages on Rome's hills. Over time, these early settlements grew and joined together to become one city.

Section 3

Greek and Etruscan Cultural Influences

Key Idea

When the Romans encountered Greek settlements, they were impressed by their grand temples and public buildings.

The Romans borrowed many Greek ideas for their own architecture, using features like large columns and strong designs. This style helped make Roman cities look powerful and magnificent, reflecting the strength of their empire.