Roman society was male-dominated, with the eldest male, the pater familias, ruling the family and women considered property. Rome grew extremely wealthy through trade along its extensive road network and by enslaving populations from conquered territories. Enslaved men were often forced to fight as gladiators in brutal public combat matches sponsored by wealthy politicians to influence elections. The largest of these venues was the Coliseum, built by Emperor Vespasian, which could hold over 80,000 spectators. In 73 BC, the Thracian gladiator Spartacus led a slave revolt that grew to over 120,000 people but was eventually crushed, with 5,000 followers crucified along the Appian Way.

1. Roman Culture

2. Male Dominated Society Men ruled family Women and children considered property Patir Familias – “Father” of family was eldest male

3. Wealth of Rome Rome was richest city on earth Traded using extensive road network “ All roads lead to Rome”

7. Roman Slave Trade Romans traded heavily in slaves Slaves came from all over empire Many became gladiators

9. Gladiatorial Combat Romans forced slaves to fight to the death Some were freemen who wanted riches and fame

10. Types of Gladiators Different classes of gladiator Modeled after conquered armies Often re-created Roman battles

18. Politics of Gladiators Gladiator games were sponsored by high ranking Romans Success of games affected success of political campaigns Games sponsor was called the “Editor”

19. The Coliseum Built by Emperor Vespasian in 79 A.D. Held over 80,000 people Built with slave labor and new invention: concrete

23. Spartacus Thracian gladiator who led 3-year slave revolt Pillaged and plundered through Rome Slave population was very high in Rome – revolt serious problem

24. Fall of Spartacus Had 120,000 followers – men, women, children Won several battles against better outfitted Legions Forces split apart ½ went to Gaul ½ stayed in Italia

25. Slave Crucifixion 5,000 of Spartacus’ followers were crucified Left to rot on the Apian Way for 10 years