Ancient Civilizations Chapter 9 Vocabulary

Explanation
A republic is a form of government where the power is held by the citizens of a nation or country. In a republic, the citizens have the authority to elect representatives who make decisions on their behalf. This system of government is based on the principle of popular sovereignty, where the people have the ultimate power and control over their government.

Explanation
The highest ranking decision-making body in the Roman government is referred to as the Senate. The Senate consisted of wealthy and influential individuals who held political power and made important decisions regarding laws, policies, and the governance of the Roman Republic. The Senate played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape and determining the direction of the government during the Roman period.

Explanation
Patricians were the term used to describe Romans who could trace their ancestry back to the creation of Rome. They were considered the elite and privileged class in Roman society, holding positions of power and influence. Being able to trace their lineage back to the founding of Rome gave them a sense of prestige and legitimacy in society.

Explanation
The term "plebians" is used to describe the average, normal, and "blue collar" people of ancient Rome. These were the commoners who made up the majority of the population and were distinct from the aristocracy and patricians. The plebeians were typically engaged in manual labor and had limited political and social rights. They played a significant role in the political and social struggles of ancient Rome, demanding more rights and representation.

Explanation
Paterfamilias refers to the most powerful family member or the oldest male in the Roman house. This term was used to describe the head of the household who held authority over the entire family, including his wife, children, and slaves. The paterfamilias had the power to make decisions, manage finances, and enforce discipline within the household. This term reflects the patriarchal structure of Roman society, where the male head of the family held significant power and control over all members of the household.

Explanation
Oratory refers to the art of public speaking. It is the skill of delivering speeches or presentations effectively and persuasively to an audience. This term encompasses the ability to use language, voice, gestures, and other rhetorical techniques to engage and captivate listeners. Oratory has been an important skill throughout history, with notable orators such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Winston Churchill inspiring and influencing people through their powerful speeches. Mastering the art of oratory allows individuals to convey their ideas, persuade others, and make a lasting impact through their spoken words.

Explanation
Gladiators were individuals, often slaves or criminals, who were forced to fight against each other or wild animals for the entertainment of Roman citizens. These spectacles took place in arenas, such as the Colosseum, and were a popular form of entertainment in ancient Rome. The term "gladiators" refers to these individuals who participated in these brutal and often deadly fights.

Explanation
An aqueduct is a term that refers to a system of water channels or pipes that are used to transport water from one place to another. The word "aqua" means water and "duct" means to lead or guide. Therefore, aqueducts specifically refer to structures that are designed to lead or guide water, making it an appropriate answer for the given description.

Explanation
The term "gospels" refers to the accounts of Jesus' life, teachings, death, and resurrection as recorded in the New Testament of the Bible. These accounts are considered to be the "good news" or the message of salvation that Jesus brought to humanity. The term "Gospels" is capitalized to specifically refer to the four books in the New Testament that are named after their authors: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These books are recognized as the primary sources of information about Jesus' life and teachings.

Explanation
Parables are short stories or narratives used by Jesus to convey spiritual or moral lessons to his followers. They were a common teaching method during Jesus' time and were particularly effective in conveying complex ideas in a simple and relatable way. By using familiar situations and characters, Jesus could engage his audience and help them understand deeper truths about the kingdom of God. The use of parables allowed Jesus to connect with his listeners on a personal level and encourage them to reflect on their own lives and beliefs.

Explanation
The term "disciples" refers to the "12 followers" who remained faithful to following Jesus and his teachings. Discipleship is a concept commonly found in religious contexts, particularly in Christianity, where it signifies the act of following and learning from a spiritual leader. In this case, the disciples were the individuals who closely followed Jesus during his ministry, learning from his teachings and spreading his message. They were essential in the establishment and continuation of Jesus' teachings and played a significant role in the formation of early Christianity.

Explanation
Crucifixion refers to the method of execution that Jesus may have undergone at the hands of the Roman army. This form of punishment involved nailing or binding a person to a cross and leaving them to die. It was a brutal and agonizing process, typically reserved for the worst criminals. The term "Crucifixion" is capitalized to emphasize its significance as a specific historical event and religious symbol associated with Jesus' death.

Explanation
The term "resurrection" refers to Jesus' ascension into Heaven and is closely associated with the Easter holiday. It signifies the belief in Jesus' rising from the dead after his crucifixion, which is a central event in Christian theology. The resurrection is celebrated during Easter as a symbol of hope, renewal, and victory over death.

Explanation
Persecution refers to the act of being harassed or oppressed due to having a belief system that is different or non-mainstream. It involves the mistreatment, discrimination, or unfair treatment of individuals based on their religious, political, or ideological beliefs. Persecution can manifest in various forms, including physical violence, social exclusion, legal discrimination, or even imprisonment. It often occurs when dominant groups or societies seek to suppress or control dissenting opinions or minority beliefs.

Explanation
A predecessor is a term used to describe a person who comes before another in time. In the given example, the speaker refers to their son, Noah, as their predecessor to a certain group or organization called "Fleegle Nation." This means that Noah will be taking on a role or position before the speaker in the context of this group. The term "predecessor" can also be used in various other contexts, such as in business or politics, to refer to someone who held a position or role before someone else.

Explanation
Bishops are the leaders of the Christian Church in Rome. They hold a position of authority and are responsible for overseeing the spiritual and administrative affairs of the Church. Bishops are appointed by higher-ranking bishops and are considered to be successors of the apostles. They play a crucial role in guiding and shepherding the Christian community, providing pastoral care, and making important decisions regarding doctrine and church governance.

Explanation
Orthodox refers to a religion that emphasizes "right believing." This term is commonly used to describe branches of Christianity that adhere to traditional beliefs and practices. Orthodox Christianity places a strong emphasis on the importance of correct doctrine and adherence to established traditions. The term can also be used more broadly to describe any religious or cultural tradition that adheres strictly to established beliefs and practices.

Explanation
Denominations refer to smaller groups or smaller parts of a religion. In religious contexts, a denomination is a subgroup within a larger religious movement that shares common beliefs, practices, and organizational structures. These smaller groups often have their own distinct rituals, doctrines, and leadership structures. Denominations can exist within various religions, such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism, and they serve to provide a sense of identity and community for their members.