Augustus Duck's Roman Quiz
A brief check of some key terms and concepts on the Roman Republic.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What river flowed through Rome?
- A.
Tiber River
- B.
Tigger River
- C.
Tiblisi River
- D.
Crymea River
Correct Answer
A. Tiber RiverExplanation
The Tiber River is the correct answer because it is the river that flows through Rome. The Tiber River has played a significant role in the history and development of Rome, serving as a water source, transportation route, and even a defensive barrier. It is one of the most important and iconic landmarks in the city.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The Romans fought the three Punic Wars with a bitter rival from
- A.
Greece
- B.
Gaul
- C.
Macedonia
- D.
Carthage
Correct Answer
D. CarthageExplanation
The Romans fought the three Punic Wars with Carthage. Carthage was a powerful city-state located in modern-day Tunisia. The Punic Wars were a series of conflicts between Rome and Carthage that spanned over a century. The wars were primarily fought over control of the Mediterranean Sea and trade routes. Carthage was a formidable opponent for Rome, with a strong navy and skilled generals. Ultimately, Rome emerged victorious and Carthage was completely destroyed. The Punic Wars marked a significant turning point in Roman history, solidifying their dominance in the Mediterranean region.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Early Rome was influenced by all of the following except.
- A.
Greeks
- B.
Etruscans
- C.
Babylonians
- D.
Latins
Correct Answer
C. BabyloniansExplanation
Early Rome was influenced by the Greeks, Etruscans, and Latins. The Greeks had a significant impact on Roman culture, particularly in the areas of art, architecture, and philosophy. The Etruscans, who were a neighboring civilization, influenced Roman religion, government, and architecture. The Latins were the indigenous people of the region and their language and culture had a strong influence on early Roman society. However, there is no historical evidence to suggest that the Babylonians had any direct influence on early Rome. Therefore, the correct answer is Babylonians.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Following the overthrow of the Etruscan king In 509, the Romans established what form of government?
- A.
A tyranny
- B.
A democracy
- C.
A republic
- D.
An oligarchy
Correct Answer
C. A republicExplanation
After the Etruscan king was overthrown in 509, the Romans established a republic as their form of government. In a republic, the power is held by the people and their elected representatives, rather than a single ruler or monarch. This type of government allows for the participation of citizens in decision-making processes and the protection of individual rights and freedoms. The Roman Republic was known for its system of checks and balances, with multiple branches of government and a Senate that played a significant role in the decision-making process.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The two leaders that headed the Republic were called
- A.
Consuls
- B.
Kings
- C.
Queens
- D.
Conifers
Correct Answer
A. ConsulsExplanation
The correct answer is "consuls." In the Roman Republic, the two leaders who headed the government were known as consuls. They were elected annually and held significant power, including the ability to command the army and veto each other's decisions. This system of having two consuls was put in place to prevent any one individual from gaining too much power and to ensure a balance of authority.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Around 800bc a group of people called the __________ settled in Erutria an area on the Northwestern part of the Italian peninsula.
- A.
Dorians
- B.
Etruscans
- C.
Romans
- D.
Greeks
Correct Answer
B. EtruscansExplanation
The correct answer is "Etruscans." The Etruscans were a group of people who settled in Etruria, which was located in the Northwestern part of the Italian peninsula around 800 BC. They had a significant influence on the development of ancient Roman civilization, particularly in terms of art, architecture, and religion. The Etruscans had their own unique language and culture, and their civilization thrived until it was eventually absorbed by the expanding Roman Empire.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What does "Crossing the Rubicon" mean?
- A.
Life gives you a second chance.
- B.
Making a decision about which there is no turning back.
- C.
Refers to when Julius Caesar tricked his best friend Rubicon.
- D.
It is the winning move in a Roman board game.
Correct Answer
B. Making a decision about which there is no turning back.Explanation
"Crossing the Rubicon" is a phrase that means making a decision from which there is no turning back. This phrase originated from the historical event when Julius Caesar crossed the Rubicon river in 49 BC, defying the Roman Senate's order. This action marked the beginning of a civil war and was seen as a point of no return. Therefore, the correct answer is "Making a decision about which there is no turning back."Rate this question:
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- 8.
The Twelve Tables of Law were important because they
- A.
Allowed Plebeians to serve in the Senate
- B.
Allowed Roman women to divorce their husbands
- C.
Made Rome a Republic
- D.
Gave Rome it's first written legal code
Correct Answer
D. Gave Rome it's first written legal codeExplanation
The Twelve Tables of Law were important because they provided Rome with its first written legal code. This code established the rights and responsibilities of Roman citizens, ensuring fairness and consistency in legal matters. It also helped to prevent arbitrary rulings by magistrates and promoted equal treatment under the law. The Twelve Tables played a crucial role in shaping Roman legal system and served as a foundation for future legal developments.Rate this question:
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- 9.
March 15, 44 BC is famous because it was the date
- A.
The Romans defeated the Gauls at the Battle of Tours.
- B.
Caesar crossed the Alps.
- C.
Hannibal was crushed by an elephant that he said looked like Ms. L.
- D.
Julius Caesar was murdered.
Correct Answer
D. Julius Caesar was murdered.Explanation
On March 15, 44 BC, Julius Caesar was murdered. This event is famous because it marked the assassination of one of the most influential leaders in Roman history. Caesar's death led to a power struggle and ultimately the end of the Roman Republic, paving the way for the rise of the Roman Empire under Augustus. The assassination itself was a significant turning point in Roman politics and had far-reaching consequences for the future of Rome.Rate this question:
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- 10.
A major engineering feat of the Romans was to build devices to get large amounts of water to major cities. These were called...
- A.
Aquacarts
- B.
Artesian wells
- C.
Aquaducts
- D.
Bota bags carried by slaves
Correct Answer
C. AquaductsExplanation
The correct answer is aqueducts. Aqueducts were a major engineering accomplishment of the Romans, as they were able to design and construct structures that transported large amounts of water to major cities. These aqueducts were crucial in providing clean water for drinking, bathing, and other uses in densely populated areas. They were often built with a combination of arches, tunnels, and channels to efficiently transport the water over long distances.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What were the underground tombs that the Etruscans and the Romans built to bury their dead called.
- A.
Catacombs
- B.
Necropolis
- C.
Grave yards
- D.
Sub burial plots
Correct Answer
A. CatacombsExplanation
The underground tombs that the Etruscans and the Romans built to bury their dead were called catacombs. These were extensive networks of tunnels and chambers used for burial purposes. The term "catacombs" is commonly associated with the early Christian underground burial sites in Rome, but it was also used to refer to the burial sites of the Etruscans and Romans. The catacombs were an important part of their burial customs and provided a sacred space for honoring and remembering the deceased.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Military road connecting Rome to other Italian cities.
- A.
The Caesar Causeway
- B.
Brutus Boulevard
- C.
The Appian Way
- D.
The Alpine Way
Correct Answer
C. The Appian WayExplanation
The Appian Way is the correct answer because it was a famous military road that connected Rome to other Italian cities. It was one of the earliest and most important Roman roads, built in 312 BC during the time of the Roman Republic. The road played a crucial role in the transportation of troops, supplies, and communication between Rome and its territories. It was named after Appius Claudius Caecus, the Roman censor who initiated its construction. The Appian Way is known for its durable construction and historical significance, making it the most suitable option among the given choices.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The Latin word for "I forbid".
- A.
Ich verbiete
- B.
Veto
- C.
Eu proibo
- D.
Lanfersiek
Correct Answer
B. VetoExplanation
The correct answer is "veto". In Latin, the word "veto" translates to "I forbid". It is commonly used in English to refer to the power of a person or body to reject a decision or proposal.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Among the Senators that plotted and murdered Julius Caesar was one of his best friends named ...
- A.
Pompey
- B.
Brutus
- C.
Tiberious
- D.
Augustus
Correct Answer
B. BrutusExplanation
Brutus was one of Julius Caesar's best friends who was involved in the plot to murder him. This historical event took place in ancient Rome, where a group of senators, including Brutus, conspired against Caesar due to fears of his growing power and influence. Despite their close friendship, Brutus believed that killing Caesar was necessary to preserve the Roman Republic. This act of betrayal by a trusted friend makes Brutus a significant figure in the story of Julius Caesar's assassination.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Rome's location was advantageous for building an empire because it was
- A.
At the center of the Mediterranean Sea.
- B.
Close to Northern Europe.
- C.
Full of mountains.
- D.
Landlocked.
Correct Answer
A. At the center of the Mediterranean Sea.Explanation
Rome's location at the center of the Mediterranean Sea was advantageous for building an empire because it provided easy access to trade routes and allowed for control over maritime trade. The sea acted as a natural barrier, protecting Rome from invasion and facilitating communication and transportation between different regions. Additionally, the Mediterranean Sea connected Rome to various territories and allowed for the expansion of the empire through naval power.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A council of 300 wealthy and powerful citizens who advised Rome's leaders.
- A.
Assembly
- B.
Congress
- C.
Senate
- D.
Supreme Court
Correct Answer
C. SenateExplanation
The correct answer is Senate. In ancient Rome, the Senate was a council of 300 wealthy and influential citizens who provided advice and guidance to the city's leaders. The Senate played a significant role in the governance of Rome, making decisions on matters such as legislation, foreign policy, and the appointment of officials. It was a prestigious and powerful institution that helped shape the direction of the Roman Republic.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A victory parade in Rome held to celebrate a generals success on the battlefield.
- A.
A triumph
- B.
A trefoil
- C.
A procession
- D.
A waddle
Correct Answer
A. A triumphExplanation
A victory parade in Rome held to celebrate a general's success on the battlefield is commonly referred to as a triumph. This term specifically denotes a grand and ceremonious celebration of a military victory, typically involving the general leading the parade, accompanied by soldiers, captives, spoils of war, and other symbols of triumph. The term "triumph" has historical significance in ancient Rome, where it was a highly prestigious event that showcased the military prowess and achievements of the general.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The Roman Republic came to an end
- A.
During the first Punic War.
- B.
When the Etruscans were driven out of Rome.
- C.
When Caligua made his horse a senator.
- D.
When Julius Caesar took power and declared himself dictator for life. Was later killed on the floor of the senate.
Correct Answer
D. When Julius Caesar took power and declared himself dictator for life. Was later killed on the floor of the senate.Explanation
The correct answer is when Julius Caesar took power and declared himself dictator for life. This event marked the end of the Roman Republic because it centralized power in the hands of one individual, undermining the system of checks and balances that had previously existed. Caesar's actions led to a shift towards autocracy and eventually the establishment of the Roman Empire. His assassination on the floor of the senate further solidified the end of the Republic and the beginning of a new era in Roman history.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What famous general marched across the Alps with elephants, took over most of the Italian peninsula yet was unable to capture Rome?
- A.
Hannibal
- B.
Diocletian
- C.
Bulla
- D.
Cicero
Correct Answer
A. HannibalExplanation
Hannibal is the correct answer because he was a famous general who led the Carthaginian army during the Second Punic War. He famously marched his army, including elephants, across the Alps to invade Italy. Hannibal achieved many victories and captured several cities in the Italian peninsula, but he was ultimately unable to capture Rome itself.Rate this question:
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- 20.
In a time of crisis in the Roman republic, a person called a _______________ could be chosen to lead the Republic for six months.
- A.
Mayor
- B.
Dictator
- C.
Consul
- D.
Praetor
Correct Answer
B. DictatorExplanation
During times of crisis in the Roman republic, a dictator could be chosen to lead the Republic for six months. Unlike the modern concept of a dictator, the Roman dictator held temporary and extraordinary powers to address urgent issues. The appointment of a dictator was a measure taken to ensure swift and decisive action during emergencies, allowing for a centralized leadership. This temporary position granted the dictator the authority to make decisions without the usual checks and balances of the Roman political system, providing a means to effectively respond to crises.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Plebeians were dissatisfied with the early Roman Republic because it was dominated by wealthy landowners called ...
- A.
Merchants
- B.
Dictators
- C.
Patricians
- D.
Censors
Correct Answer
C. PatriciansExplanation
The plebeians were dissatisfied with the early Roman Republic because it was dominated by wealthy landowners called patricians. The patricians held most of the political power and controlled the government, while the plebeians, who were the common people, had little to no say in the decision-making process. This led to a significant wealth and power gap between the two classes, causing discontent among the plebeians.Rate this question:
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- 22.
What famous female Egyptian leader did Julius Caesar AND Marc Antony develop a relationship with?
- A.
Hatshepsut
- B.
Nefertiti
- C.
Cleopatra
- D.
Sobeknofru
Correct Answer
C. CleopatraExplanation
Julius Caesar and Marc Antony both developed a relationship with Cleopatra, a famous female Egyptian leader. Cleopatra was known for her beauty, intelligence, and political savvy. She formed alliances with powerful Roman leaders in order to protect Egypt's interests and maintain her own power. Her relationships with Caesar and Antony were significant in shaping the political landscape of the time and had a lasting impact on the history of Egypt and Rome.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Trained fighters who battled in colosseum.
- A.
Gladiators
- B.
Thracians
- C.
Salivators
- D.
Hoplites
Correct Answer
A. GladiatorsExplanation
Gladiators were trained fighters who battled in the colosseum. They were known for their combat skills and often fought to the death for the entertainment of the spectators. The term "gladiator" specifically refers to these fighters, while the other options - Thracians, Salivators, and Hoplites - do not accurately describe the trained fighters who battled in the colosseum.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The language of Rome (that gave rise to the "Romance" languages) was
- A.
Etruscalese
- B.
German
- C.
Corsican
- D.
Latin
Correct Answer
D. LatinExplanation
Latin is the correct answer because it was the language of ancient Rome, which eventually evolved into the Romance languages such as Italian, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. Latin was widely spoken and used as the official language of the Roman Empire, making it a significant and influential language in history.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The last Etruscan king was named
- A.
Augustus Duckworth
- B.
Tarquin the Proud
- C.
Nero the Fiddler
- D.
Hadrian the Horrible
Correct Answer
B. Tarquin the ProudExplanation
Tarquin the Proud is the correct answer because he was the last Etruscan king. Tarquin ruled over Rome during the 6th century BC and was known for his tyrannical and oppressive rule. His reign eventually led to the establishment of the Roman Republic, as the Romans revolted against his rule and abolished the monarchy.Rate this question:
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- 26.
What idea was the basis for Rome's system of laws?
- A.
All citizens should be treated equally under the law.
- B.
Patricians had special rights as the ruling class.
- C.
Plebeians and patricians could never marry.
- D.
Judges made decisions based on their own beliefs.
Correct Answer
A. All citizens should be treated equally under the law.Explanation
The correct answer is "All citizens should be treated equally under the law." This idea was the basis for Rome's system of laws because it promoted fairness and justice for all individuals, regardless of their social status or background. It ensured that everyone had the same rights and protections under the law, creating a more egalitarian society. This principle was fundamental to the Roman legal system and contributed to the stability and longevity of the Roman Empire.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The land the Romans called Gaul, today is known as ......
- A.
Germany
- B.
France
- C.
Britian
- D.
Spain
Correct Answer
B. FranceExplanation
The land that the Romans called Gaul is known as France today. Gaul was a region in Western Europe that encompassed present-day France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and parts of Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Germany. The Romans referred to this region as Gaul during their conquest and occupation, and it eventually evolved into the country we now know as France.Rate this question:
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- 28.
What famous gladiator/slave led a revolt that 70,000 slaves took part in. I'm __________ ...NO, I'm .....
- A.
Cicero
- B.
Spartacus
- C.
Bulla
- D.
Hannibal
Correct Answer
B. SpartacusExplanation
Spartacus is the correct answer because he was a famous gladiator and slave who led a revolt that involved 70,000 slaves. The given statement "I'm _______...NO, I'm ....." is a reference to the famous line from the 1960 film "Spartacus" where the slaves all claim to be Spartacus in order to protect him from being singled out.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The mythological founders of Rome. Brothers saved by a she wolf ...
- A.
Caesar & Augustus
- B.
Laurel & Hardy
- C.
Trajan & Nero
- D.
Romulus & Remus
Correct Answer
D. Romulus & RemusExplanation
Romulus and Remus are the mythological founders of Rome. According to the legend, they were abandoned as infants and were saved by a she-wolf who nursed and raised them. As they grew up, they decided to build a city on the spot where the she-wolf found them. However, a disagreement arose between the brothers, leading to Romulus killing Remus and becoming the sole ruler of the city, which was named Rome after him. Therefore, Romulus and Remus are the correct answer as they are the well-known figures associated with the founding of Rome.Rate this question:
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- 30.
A large amphitheater in Rome that held deadly gladiatorial games.
- A.
The Forum
- B.
The Pantheon
- C.
The Hadrian
- D.
The Colosseum
Correct Answer
D. The ColosseumExplanation
The correct answer is the Colosseum because it is the most well-known and iconic amphitheater in Rome. It was specifically built for gladiatorial games and other spectacles, and its size and design allowed for large crowds to witness these deadly events. The Colosseum is a significant historical and cultural landmark, representing the grandeur and brutality of ancient Rome.Rate this question:
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- 31.
A representative that protected the rights of the Plebians in the Senate ….
- A.
Auxiliare
- B.
Tribune
- C.
Assemblyman
- D.
Legionaire
Correct Answer
B. TribuneExplanation
A Tribune was a representative in the ancient Roman Senate who specifically protected the rights and interests of the Plebians, the common people. They had the power to veto any legislation that they deemed unfair or harmful to the Plebians. The Tribune's role was crucial in ensuring that the Plebians had a voice and were not oppressed by the Patricians, the elite class in Roman society.Rate this question:
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- 32.
After Caesars death there were four men that tried to position themselves to become the leader of Rome. Who won and became the leader and first emperor of Rome?
- A.
Brutus
- B.
Marc Antony
- C.
Octavian
- D.
Marcus Lepidus
Correct Answer
C. OctavianExplanation
After Caesar's death, Octavian emerged as the winner and became the leader and first emperor of Rome. He was able to consolidate his power, defeat his rivals, and establish himself as the sole ruler of Rome. Octavian, later known as Augustus, played a crucial role in the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, bringing stability and prosperity to the empire during his reign.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Caesar's famous quote, "the die is cast" means
- A.
You must die before you can gain fame.
- B.
A bronze sculpture of me is to be made
- C.
The decision has been made; no turning back
- D.
The time is now to turn and retreat!
Correct Answer
C. The decision has been made; no turning backExplanation
The correct answer is "the decision has been made; no turning back." This is because the phrase "the die is cast" is commonly used to express that a decision or action has been taken and there is no way to change or reverse it. It comes from the practice of casting lots or dice to make a decision, where once the dice are thrown, the outcome is determined and cannot be altered.Rate this question:
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- 34.
A tribune who attempted to introduce land and citizenship reform; he was killed by order of the Senate
- A.
Pompey
- B.
Tiberius Gracchus
- C.
Marcus Brutus
- D.
Gladius Maximus
Correct Answer
B. Tiberius GracchusExplanation
Tiberius Gracchus was a tribune who advocated for land and citizenship reforms in ancient Rome. He was killed by order of the Senate for his radical ideas and attempts to redistribute land to the poor. His death marked a turning point in Roman politics and highlighted the conflict between the Senate and the popular tribunes. Pompey, Marcus Brutus, and Gladius Maximus are not relevant to this context.Rate this question:
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- 35.
A large farm or plantation in ancient Italy ...
- A.
Catacomb
- B.
Labyrinth
- C.
Alotofundia
- D.
Latifundia
Correct Answer
D. LatifundiaExplanation
Latifundia is the correct answer because it refers to a large farm or plantation in ancient Italy. This term specifically describes the large agricultural estates that were owned by wealthy individuals or the state. These latifundia played a significant role in the Roman economy and society, as they were worked by slaves or tenant farmers and produced large quantities of agricultural goods. The term "latifundia" is derived from the Latin words "latus" meaning "wide" and "fundus" meaning "estate" or "farm".Rate this question:
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- 36.
1 of 7 hills ... the one where the building of Rome began.
- A.
Capitoline Hill
- B.
Palatine Hill
- C.
Aventine Hill
- D.
Esquiline Hill
Correct Answer
B. Palatine HillExplanation
The Palatine Hill is the correct answer because it is the hill where the building of Rome began. It is considered one of the most ancient parts of the city and is associated with the founding of Rome by Romulus. The Palatine Hill is also known for its historical significance, as it was the site of many important Roman palaces and temples, including the residence of Augustus Caesar.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Apr 22, 2014Quiz Created by
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