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Geography and Early Rome — Reading Comprehension

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This passage, aligned to HSS 6.7 and CCSS RH.6-8.2, explores the rise of Ancient Rome with a focus on its geographical setting and early society. Students will analyze how Rome's location near the Tiber River and its surrounding hills contributed to its growth from a small settlement into a powerful city-state. The passage covers Rome’s legendary origins, archaeological discoveries, and the importance of social hierarchy in its early years. It also includes activities and assessments to help students build historical thinking skills, such as cause and effect and using evidence. The resource features a glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, graphic organizers, and a timeline. Read-aloud audio and a Spanish translation are available, making this a comprehensive tool for diverse classrooms studying world and ancient history.

CONTENT PREVIEW

SKETCH-MAP OF ANCIENT ROME. by James Bikie
Source: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

The city of Rome began on the Italian Peninsula, where geography shaped its destiny as one of history’s most influential civilizations. Located in central Italy, Rome’s founders settled near the Tiber River, surrounded by seven hills. This natural setting provided fertile land, fresh water, and protection from invasion, making the area ideal for early settlement.

The origins of Rome are rooted in both legend and evidence. According to Roman tradition, twin brothers Romulus and Remus, raised by a she-wolf, founded the city in 753 BCE. Archaeologists have found traces of small villages on the Palatine Hill dating back to at least the 8th century BCE, supporting a timeline close to the legendary founding. The area’s hills made it easy to defend, while the Tiber River allowed for trade and transportation. Nearby, the Etruscans in the north and Greeks in the south influenced early Roman culture, sharing art, technology, and religious practices.

Rome’s location also influenced its growth into a powerful city-state. The fertile plains along the Tiber supported agriculture, which helped the population grow. The river itself connected Rome to the Mediterranean Sea, giving Romans access to trade routes and new ideas. Over time, Rome expanded its territory, first controlling nearby villages and then uniting the regions of Latium. By the 6th century BCE, Rome was ruled by kings, but archaeological evidence shows a forum where citizens gathered for markets, meetings, and political debates. This early public space set the stage for the later Republic, where citizens elected leaders and shared power.

Daily life in early Rome reflected a clear social hierarchy. At the top were the wealthy landowners, known as patricians, while most Romans were commoners, or plebeians. Archaeological discoveries, like family homes and pottery, show differences in wealth and status. As Rome grew, conflicts between social classes led to important changes, including new laws and rights for plebeians. These early struggles shaped Rome’s political structure for centuries.

Rome’s rise was not guaranteed. Geography, cultural exchange, and social change all contributed to its success. From a cluster of villages on seven hills, Rome became the center of a vast empire. Studying its early foundations helps us understand how geography and human decisions shape civilizations across time.

Interesting Fact: Archaeologists have found ancient walls and huts on the Palatine Hill, providing real evidence for the legendary founding of Rome.

Where was Rome founded?

On the Italian PeninsulaIn ancient GreeceIn northern AfricaOn the Nile River

Who were Romulus and Remus?

Legendary founders of RomeGreek philosophersEtruscan kingsRoman emperors

What river flows near Rome?

Tiber RiverYellow RiverNile RiverAmazon River

How did geography help Rome grow?

Fertile land and riverHigh mountains onlyDesert climateIsolated island

Why was the forum important?

Place for markets and meetingsRoyal palaceCity wallMilitary camp

What effect did social conflict have?

Led to new laws for plebeiansEnded all tradeDestroyed the cityStopped farming