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Period: 600 BCE to Dec 31, 600
Politics in Classical Rome
As most civilizations grew, Rome was rarely in a position where it wasn't being ruled by one man who has absolute power. From Julius Caesar to Romulus Augustus, Rome has always returned to the rule of one man. Rome retaliated against these cruel and unjust rulers just as often as they stepped up. On the other hand, some rulers chose to defend the land they ruled, while others worked on starting military offenses to gather more land. Rome fell into the classical pattern of continuity and change. -
509 BCE
Rome becomes a Republic
Lucius Tarquinus Superbus and his family are expelled from Rome. Tarquin was the last king of Rome so his expulsion marks the end of monarchies in Rome. -
264 BCE
The First Punic War
264 B.C. - 241 B.C.
Rome interfered in the conflict between Messina and Syracuse which was part of the Carthaginian province. Sicily becomes Rome's first overseas province as they emerge victorious. -
218 BCE
The Second Punic War
218 B.C. - 201 B.C.
Initial attack was led by Hannibal as he marched Saguntum and declared war on Rome. Off to a rough start, Rome eventually wins battles in Italy, Spain, and North Africa. -
149 BCE
The Third Punic War
149 B.C. - 146 B.C.
Carthage breaks treaty and declares war on Numidia. Carthage surrenders after seven day battle. Ends in Roman victory and Carthaginian citizens are sold into slavery. -
59 BCE
Julius Caesar's Rise to Power
Julius Caesar is appointed as Consul after forming an alliance with General Pompey and Crassus. -
47 BCE
Julius Caesar is declared dictator for life
Julius Caesar is appointed dictator for life after having been temporary dictator. Caesar is a king in every sense of the word, minus the title. -
44 BCE
Julius Caesar is assassinated
Caesar is murdered by his own senators, known as the "Ides of March." This marks the end of the Roman Republic. -
27 BCE
Augustus Caesar is named Consul
Octavian (Augustus) Caesar marches in on the Roman Senate and forces them to declare him Consul. Although a consul in name, Augustus was much like an emperor and marks the start of the Roman Empire. -
285
Rome is split in half
Rome's provinces had grown too vast to be controlled under one rule, so Emperor Diocletian divides Rome into Eastern and Western Empires. -
476
Romulus is overthrown
Romulus is overthrown by Germanic leader Odoacer and becomes the last emperor to rule Rome. This event marks the end of the reign of the Roman Empire.
