A Trivia Test On Civilization Of Ancient Rome!
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Questions and Answers
- 1.
Rome's first code of laws was the_______________________.
- A.
Law of Nations
- B.
Twelve Tables
- C.
Council of Plebs
- D.
Based on the idea of Natural Law
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Twelve TablesExplanation
The correct answer is Twelve Tables. The Twelve Tables were the first written code of laws in ancient Rome. They were created in 450 BC and were displayed in public for all citizens to see. The laws covered various aspects of Roman society, including property rights, marriage, and criminal offenses. The Twelve Tables were an essential step in the development of Roman law and served as a foundation for future legal systems.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which of the following statements describes the Roman Republic?
- A.
It was designed to prevent one man from having total power.
- B.
It was created in response to the hatred of Etruscan kings.
- C.
There was some balance of power between the Consuls and the Senate.
- D.
The Senate was the most powerful governmental body in the Republic.
- E.
All of these describe the Roman Republic.
Correct Answer
E. All of these describe the Roman Republic.Explanation
The Roman Republic was designed to prevent one man from having total power, as it was a system of government where power was shared among multiple individuals. It was created in response to the hatred of Etruscan kings, as the Romans wanted to establish a government that would not be ruled by a single monarch. There was a balance of power between the Consuls and the Senate, with the Consuls being the highest elected officials and the Senate being a powerful governing body. Therefore, all of these statements accurately describe the Roman Republic.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Who were the first people to rule Rome?
- A.
Latins
- B.
Plebeians
- C.
Etruscans
- D.
Greeks
- E.
Carthaginians
Correct Answer
C. EtruscansExplanation
The Etruscans were the first people to rule Rome. They were an ancient civilization that inhabited the region of Etruria, which is present-day Tuscany in Italy. They had a significant influence on the early development of Rome, including its architecture, religion, and political structure. The Etruscans ruled Rome as kings from the 7th century BC until they were overthrown by the Romans in 509 BC, leading to the establishment of the Roman Republic.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What is a "triumvirate"?
- A.
Rule of three men who share power
- B.
The first in Rome included Julius Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus
- C.
An arch that was constructed to celebrate a major victory in battle
- D.
All of the above
- E.
A and B only
Correct Answer
E. A and B onlyExplanation
A "triumvirate" refers to a rule of three men who share power. In the case of the first triumvirate in Rome, it included Julius Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus. Therefore, the correct answer is A and B only.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Rome came to dominate the Mediterranean region through which series of wars?
- A.
The Sicilian Wars
- B.
The Dacian Wars
- C.
The Punic Wars
- D.
The Gaulic Wars
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. The Punic WarsExplanation
The correct answer is The Punic Wars. During the Punic Wars, Rome and Carthage fought a series of three wars that spanned over a century. These wars were primarily fought for control over the Mediterranean region and resulted in Rome's dominance in the area. The Punic Wars were significant in shaping the power dynamics of the ancient world and solidified Rome's position as a major empire.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Hadrian's Wall was a defense against whom?
- A.
Gauls
- B.
Vandals
- C.
Visigoths
- D.
Scottish
- E.
Greeks
Correct Answer
D. ScottishExplanation
Hadrian's Wall was a defense against the Scottish. The wall was built by the Roman emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD to mark the northernmost boundary of the Roman Empire and to protect Roman Britain from invasions by the Scottish tribes. The wall served as a physical barrier and a military fortification, with the intention of controlling and regulating movement between Roman Britain and the Scottish territories.Rate this question:
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- 7.
There were two consuls in Rome because...
- A.
Romans distrusted kings and the rule of one man
- B.
Two consuls represented the legendary brothers Romulus and Remus
- C.
One was meant to deal with citizens and one with non-citizens of Rome
- D.
All of the above
- E.
A and B only
Correct Answer
A. Romans distrusted kings and the rule of one manExplanation
The correct answer is Romans distrusted kings and the rule of one man. This is because the Romans had a deep-rooted fear and suspicion of concentrated power in the hands of a single individual. They believed that having two consuls would provide a system of checks and balances, preventing any one person from becoming too powerful and potentially tyrannical. This arrangement reflected their commitment to a republican form of government and their desire to avoid the pitfalls of monarchy.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What region did Julius Caesar conquer and thereby double the size of Roman territory?
- A.
Gaul
- B.
Ethiopia
- C.
Egypt
- D.
India
- E.
Persia
Correct Answer
A. GaulExplanation
Julius Caesar conquered Gaul, which doubled the size of Roman territory. Gaul was a region in Western Europe that encompassed modern-day France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and parts of Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Germany. Caesar's conquest of Gaul greatly expanded the Roman Empire's reach and influence in the region.Rate this question:
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- 9.
At it's height, the city of Rome had a population of about ______________.
- A.
3-5 million
- B.
50-70 million
- C.
10 thousand
- D.
1 million
- E.
500 thousand
Correct Answer
D. 1 millionExplanation
During its peak, the city of Rome had a population of approximately 1 million people. This suggests that Rome was a highly populated city during its height, indicating its significance and influence in ancient times.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of the following is true of Rome's geographical location?
- A.
The Tiber River provided easy access to the Mediterranean Sea.
- B.
It's close to the coast, but far enough inland to be protected from naval attack.
- C.
It's in the middle of the Italian peninsula.
- D.
It's surrounded by fertile plains.
- E.
All of the above.
Correct Answer
E. All of the above.Explanation
Rome's geographical location is advantageous for several reasons. Firstly, the Tiber River allowed for easy access to the Mediterranean Sea, facilitating trade and communication with other regions. Additionally, Rome is close to the coast but far enough inland to be protected from naval attacks, providing a strategic advantage. Furthermore, being situated in the middle of the Italian peninsula gives Rome a central location, making it easier to govern and administer the vast territory. Lastly, the city is surrounded by fertile plains, which supported agriculture and contributed to its economic prosperity. Therefore, all of the statements mentioned are true about Rome's geographical location.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What building material was invented and used extensively by Roman engineers?
- A.
Marble
- B.
Bricks
- C.
Arches
- D.
Water proof cement
- E.
All of the above.
Correct Answer
D. Water proof cementExplanation
Roman engineers invented and used extensively a building material known as waterproof cement. This material was a significant innovation as it allowed the Romans to construct durable and long-lasting structures, such as aqueducts, bridges, and buildings. The waterproof cement was made by mixing lime, volcanic ash, and water, resulting in a strong and water-resistant substance. This invention revolutionized Roman engineering and played a crucial role in the construction of their impressive architectural achievements.Rate this question:
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- 12.
How many people in Rome were slaves?
- A.
1 out of every 10
- B.
1 out of every 5
- C.
1 out of every 20
- D.
1 out of every 100
- E.
None of the above.
Correct Answer
E. None of the above.Explanation
The given options suggest different ratios of slaves to the total population in Rome. However, without any specific data or historical context, it is not possible to determine the exact ratio of slaves in Rome. Therefore, the correct answer is "None of the above" as none of the given options can be confirmed as the accurate ratio of slaves in Rome.Rate this question:
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- 13.
What architectural feature allowed Romans to save on materials while strengthening their structures?
- A.
The arch
- B.
The capital
- C.
The tunnel
- D.
The column
- E.
The aqueduct
Correct Answer
A. The archExplanation
The arch is the correct answer because it allowed Romans to save on materials while strengthening their structures. The arch distributes weight evenly along its curved shape, reducing the amount of materials needed for construction. This architectural feature also provided better support and stability to buildings, allowing the Romans to build larger and more durable structures.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What served as the center of Roman political activity?
- A.
The Colosseum
- B.
The Pantheon
- C.
The Campus Martius
- D.
The Forum
- E.
Ostia
Correct Answer
D. The ForumExplanation
The Forum served as the center of Roman political activity. It was a public square in ancient Rome where political, religious, and commercial activities took place. It was the hub of political life, where important government buildings, temples, and law courts were located. The Forum was also a place for public speeches, elections, and debates, making it the heart of Roman politics.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following was not a contributing factor in Rome's success?
- A.
Romans could be very diplomatic
- B.
Romans made many of those they conquered citizens or allies of Rome.
- C.
Rome had a very powerful army
- D.
Roman soldiers built roads to connect conquered areas
- E.
Romans forced other cultures to follow Roman custom and religion
Correct Answer
E. Romans forced other cultures to follow Roman custom and religionExplanation
The Romans' success can be attributed to several factors, including their diplomacy, the incorporation of conquered peoples into their empire, their powerful army, and the construction of roads to connect conquered areas. However, the statement that Romans forced other cultures to follow Roman custom and religion was not a contributing factor in Rome's success. While the Romans did spread their culture and religion, it was not a decisive factor in their overall success.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The language of the Romans was Latin, and they spread it all throughout Europe.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because Latin was indeed the language of the Romans, and they did spread it throughout Europe. Latin was the official language of the Roman Empire and was widely used for communication, administration, and education. As the Roman Empire expanded, Latin became the dominant language in the regions it conquered, and it continued to be used even after the fall of the empire. Latin had a significant influence on the development of the Romance languages and remained an important language for scholarly and religious purposes for many centuries.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Roman law was based on Natural Law, which in turn influenced the formation of the US government.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because Roman law was indeed based on Natural Law. Natural Law is a theory that suggests that certain rights and principles are inherent to human nature and can be discovered through reason and observation. Roman law heavily relied on this concept, as it sought to establish a system of justice that was grounded in universal principles. This influence can be seen in the formation of the US government, as the Founding Fathers drew inspiration from Roman law and the concept of Natural Law when drafting the Constitution and establishing the principles of American governance.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Romans conquered lands throughout the Mediterranean before they conquered the Italian peninsula.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because the Romans actually conquered the Italian peninsula before expanding their empire throughout the Mediterranean. The Romans first established their dominance over the Italian peninsula by defeating other tribes and city-states. It was only after securing control over Italy that they began to expand their empire into other regions, including the Mediterranean.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Roman roads were poorly constructed, and inhibited the movement of goods and armies.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The given statement that Roman roads were poorly constructed and inhibited the movement of goods and armies is false. In fact, Roman roads were known for their excellent construction and engineering techniques, which allowed for efficient transportation and communication throughout the Roman Empire. These roads were crucial for the movement of goods, armies, and people, and played a significant role in the success and expansion of the Roman Empire.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Before Rome, Carthage was the super power in the Mediterranean.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Carthage was indeed a superpower in the Mediterranean before Rome. Carthage was a prosperous and powerful city-state located in present-day Tunisia. It established a vast trading empire and had a strong navy, which allowed it to dominate the Mediterranean region. However, Rome eventually rose to power and engaged in a series of wars known as the Punic Wars with Carthage. After a long and brutal conflict, Rome emerged victorious and became the new superpower in the Mediterranean, while Carthage was destroyed and its territory became part of the Roman Empire.Rate this question:
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- 21.
His changes to the military gave power to the generals, not the Senate.
- A.
Julius Caesar
- B.
Marius
- C.
Augustus
- D.
Octavian
- E.
Hannibal
Correct Answer
B. MariusExplanation
Marius is the correct answer because he made significant changes to the military that shifted power away from the Senate and towards the generals. This change allowed the generals, like Marius himself, to have more control and influence over the military. This shift in power ultimately had a profound impact on the Roman political landscape and contributed to the decline of the Roman Republic.Rate this question:
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- 22.
He was given the title Imperator - the Emperor.
- A.
Julius Caesar
- B.
Marius
- C.
Augustus
- D.
Octavian
- E.
Hannibal
Correct Answer
D. OctavianExplanation
Octavian was given the title Imperator, which means Emperor. This title was bestowed upon him after he emerged victorious in the civil war that followed the assassination of Julius Caesar. Octavian, who later became known as Augustus, was the first Roman Emperor and played a crucial role in the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire.Rate this question:
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- 23.
He was the victor of the First Triumvirate, but was assassinated by the Senate.
- A.
Julius Caesar
- B.
Marius
- C.
Augustus
- D.
Octavian
- E.
Hannibal
Correct Answer
A. Julius CaesarExplanation
Julius Caesar was the victor of the First Triumvirate, a political alliance between Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus. However, his increasing power and popularity led to his assassination by members of the Senate who feared his growing influence. Caesar's death marked a turning point in Roman history and eventually led to the rise of his adopted heir, Augustus, as the first Roman Emperor.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The name given to Octavian that means "revered one".
- A.
Julius Caesar
- B.
Marius
- C.
Augustus
- D.
Octavian
- E.
Hannibal
Correct Answer
C. AugustusExplanation
Augustus was the name given to Octavian after he became the first Roman Emperor. The name "Augustus" means "revered one" in Latin. This name change symbolized his new position of power and authority in Rome. It was a title that emphasized his elevated status and the respect he commanded as the ruler of the Roman Empire.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The Carthaginian general who led his army over the Alps to attack Rome.
- A.
Julius Caesar
- B.
Marius
- C.
Augustus
- D.
Octavian
- E.
Hannibal
Correct Answer
E. HannibalExplanation
Hannibal was the Carthaginian general who famously led his army over the Alps to attack Rome during the Second Punic War. This bold and daring military strategy caught the Romans off guard and resulted in several victories for Hannibal. Despite his initial success, Hannibal was eventually defeated by the Romans. However, his military tactics and strategies are still studied and admired by military historians today.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The order of "commoners" in Rome that included all free men who weren't members of the nobility.
- A.
Consul
- B.
Dictator
- C.
Plebeian
- D.
Pax Romana
- E.
Patrician
Correct Answer
C. PlebeianExplanation
The correct answer is Plebeian. In ancient Rome, the plebeians were the commoners who were not members of the nobility. They were free men and made up the majority of the population. The plebeians had fewer rights and privileges compared to the patricians, who were the aristocratic class. This division between the patricians and plebeians was a significant social and political issue in Roman society, leading to conflicts and struggles for equality and representation. The term "plebeian" is often used to refer to the common people or the working class in general.Rate this question:
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- 27.
An era of stability and prosperity in the Roman Empire during the 2nd century CE.
- A.
Consul
- B.
Dictator
- C.
Plebeian
- D.
Pax Romana
- E.
Patrician
Correct Answer
D. Pax RomanaExplanation
Pax Romana refers to a period of peace and stability in the Roman Empire during the 2nd century CE. This era was characterized by economic prosperity, political stability, and relatively low levels of conflict. It allowed for the expansion of trade, the development of infrastructure, and the flourishing of arts and culture. The Pax Romana was largely attributed to the strong leadership of emperors such as Augustus and Trajan, who implemented effective governance and maintained a strong military presence. This period marked a significant contrast to the preceding era of civil wars and political instability in the Roman Empire.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The highest office of the Roman Republic.
- A.
Consul
- B.
Dictator
- C.
Plebeian
- D.
Pax Romana
- E.
Patrician
Correct Answer
A. ConsulExplanation
The highest office of the Roman Republic was the Consul. Consuls were elected annually and were the chief executives of the government. They had both civil and military powers and were responsible for leading the Roman army, presiding over the Senate, and enforcing laws. Consuls were chosen from the Patrician class, the aristocratic elite of Roman society. They were considered the highest authority in the Republic and held significant influence over political and military affairs.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The order of very wealthy land owners, who became the ruling class of Rome.
- A.
Consul
- B.
Dictator
- C.
Plebeian
- D.
Pax Romana
- E.
Patrician
Correct Answer
E. PatricianExplanation
The correct answer is Patrician because the question is asking for the order of very wealthy landowners who became the ruling class of Rome. The term "Patrician" refers to the upper-class aristocracy in ancient Rome who held significant political and social power. They were typically wealthy landowners and were considered to be the ruling elite of Roman society.Rate this question:
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- 30.
In a crisis, one man could be given this title for six months, during which he had total power to command.
- A.
Consul
- B.
Dictator
- C.
Plebeian
- D.
Pax Romana
- E.
Patrician
Correct Answer
B. DictatorExplanation
During a crisis, a temporary leader with absolute authority may be appointed to make quick and decisive decisions. This leader is known as a dictator. They have the power to command and make decisions without any checks or balances. The term of a dictator is usually limited, in this case, it is for six months. This temporary concentration of power allows for efficient and effective decision-making during times of crisis.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 09, 2011Quiz Created by
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