The Romans developed many innovations that shaped modern society, including improved water wheels, paddle-wheel boats, and the first candles made by dipping wicks in animal fat. They also invented or spread the first mechanical reaper and had ideas for large entertainment venues like the Coliseum, advanced plumbing systems, and the Julian calendar still used today with some revisions. Roman innovations in architecture, construction materials like concrete, aqueducts, bathhouses, sewers, and public toilets established concepts of sanitation, hygiene, and infrastructure that formed the foundations of modern civilization.

1. Roman InventionsBy: Anna, Haley, Nicholas, & Will

2. InventionsThe Roman Empire created countless new inventions, but they also spread older ideas around Europe and credited themselves with the invention.

3. Improved the water wheelFirst to develop boats operated by paddle wheelCreated the first modern candles by dipping wicks into animal fat.

4. Mechanical ReaperThe Romans either invented or widely spread the first mechanical reaper.This machine would cut the ears of corn without the stalks.This machine was forgotten during the Dark Ages and the progress of the Romans was lost.

5. Roman ideasThe Romans not only made new inventions but also new ideas. The Coliseum in Rome could seat and entertain around 50,000 people. One could see gladiator fights, mock sea battles, or executions here.A system was even present that could measure and bill for specific quantities of water, much as is in use today.

6. Ideas cont.Where would we be without our calendar? Well, the Romans came up with the Julian calendar that had 12 months and 365 days in a year, with a leap year every four years. The more accurate Gregorian calendar eventually took over, but is nearly identical. Roman numerals were used for counting and originated from notches taken on counting sticks. This system of numbers is still found in clocks and calendars today.

7. The idea of cleanlinessRomans started the view of cleanliness and good hygiene. They would take daily baths in exquisite bathhouses that were made available to all levels of society,

8. Public Toilets“Many Romans believed that Rome’s sewers were the city’s greatest achievement.” Seven rivers flowing through the city flushed sewage away.Rome had over 144 public toilets. A small fee was charged to gain entry to each one, but most people could afford it.

9. ArchitecturePantheon templeRoman Forum (Latin: Forum Romanumcoliseum

10. MaterialsWith the discovery of a strong and waterproof concrete, the Romans could create radically new architecture, such as domes and arches.Constantine’s ArchPantheonAqueductsThe waterproof concrete was used to create miles of aqueducts that brought water into cities.The aqueduct in Segovia, Spain is still standing.

11. The endThe Romans made a huge impact on history with their inventions and innovations and the world would not be the same without them.