The document summarizes the rise of Rome from a small settlement along the Tiber River to a powerful republic that expanded throughout Italy and the Mediterranean region. Rome's central location in Italy and fertile land allowed it to grow in population and control trade. The republic was established in 509 BCE and had a government structure with consuls, a senate, and assemblies. Rome defeated Carthage in the Punic Wars and destroyed the city, gaining control of the Mediterranean. The republic established organized rule and spread Roman culture as it expanded its empire through military conquest aided by its professional army and infrastructure like roads.