Learn on PengiIMPACT California Social Studies, Grade 6Chapter 10: Roman Civilization

Lesson 1: The Roman Way of Life

In this Grade 6 lesson from IMPACT California Social Studies, Chapter 10, students explore daily life in ancient Rome, learning how Roman cities were organized around the Forum, how social hierarchy shaped living conditions for wealthy citizens versus the poor, and how political leaders used "bread and circuses" to maintain public support. Students also examine the role of the patriarchal family structure at the center of Roman society and analyze the influence of Greek culture on Roman traditions.

Section 1

The Paterfamilias Rules the Roman Household

Key Idea

In ancient Rome, the family was the center of society. The oldest living male, known as the paterfamilias, was the head of the family. This title meant "father of the family," and he held great power over everyone living with him.

The paterfamilias had complete legal authority over his entire household. This included his wife, his adult sons and their families, his unmarried daughters, and all enslaved people. He made all major decisions, such as arranging marriages and controlling the family's property.

Section 2

Inequality Divides Roman Society

Key Idea

Daily life in the Roman Empire was defined by extreme inequality. A small number of wealthy families had great power and comfort, while the vast majority of people were poor. This created two very different experiences of life in Rome.

The rich lived in spacious villas and enjoyed fancy banquets. The poor crowded into dangerous, wooden apartment buildings and survived on simple food like bread. The laws also treated the wealthy much more favorably than the poor, who struggled to find justice.

Section 3

Expansion Divides Roman Society

Key Idea

Rome's constant wars created serious problems at home. Many soldiers were small farmers who had to leave their land to fight. When they returned, their farms were often ruined and taken over by the wealthy. The rich created huge farming estates called latifundias, which were worked by enslaved people.

These jobless citizens crowded into cities, leading to unrest. The harsh conditions for the enslaved also sparked violent slave revolts, most famously the revolt led by Spartacus in 73 B.C.E., which threatened the stability of the Republic.

Lesson overview

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Section 1

The Paterfamilias Rules the Roman Household

Key Idea

In ancient Rome, the family was the center of society. The oldest living male, known as the paterfamilias, was the head of the family. This title meant "father of the family," and he held great power over everyone living with him.

The paterfamilias had complete legal authority over his entire household. This included his wife, his adult sons and their families, his unmarried daughters, and all enslaved people. He made all major decisions, such as arranging marriages and controlling the family's property.

Section 2

Inequality Divides Roman Society

Key Idea

Daily life in the Roman Empire was defined by extreme inequality. A small number of wealthy families had great power and comfort, while the vast majority of people were poor. This created two very different experiences of life in Rome.

The rich lived in spacious villas and enjoyed fancy banquets. The poor crowded into dangerous, wooden apartment buildings and survived on simple food like bread. The laws also treated the wealthy much more favorably than the poor, who struggled to find justice.

Section 3

Expansion Divides Roman Society

Key Idea

Rome's constant wars created serious problems at home. Many soldiers were small farmers who had to leave their land to fight. When they returned, their farms were often ruined and taken over by the wealthy. The rich created huge farming estates called latifundias, which were worked by enslaved people.

These jobless citizens crowded into cities, leading to unrest. The harsh conditions for the enslaved also sparked violent slave revolts, most famously the revolt led by Spartacus in 73 B.C.E., which threatened the stability of the Republic.