Rome gained territory and power through wars with Carthage over several centuries. Romans established colonies and traded agricultural goods, expanding their empire across the Mediterranean region. Their society was stratified, with patricians at the top governing through a republican system, while plebeians comprised the working classes. Citizens found recreation in gladiator games and socializing, though education was limited for the poor. Trade routes and infrastructure like aqueducts and roads supported economic development, though inflation and unemployment later challenged their economy.