Name_______________________________
Social Studies
Date____________________
Teacher_________________
Ancient Rome
Chapter 8: Section 1
Pages 262- 267
Overview
The Italian peninsula founded a city called Rome. Within 200 years, Rome would
develop a government ruled by its citizens. Rome grew into a vast empire that stretched
across Europe, touching Africa and western Asia. The influence of this great empire,
including its laws, language, technology, and religion, spread far and wide and has lasted
into modern times.
Directions: Respond to the following questions using the map and pages 262- 267 in your
textbook. Write your answers in complete sentences into your marble notebook.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What are two ways in which the geography of Italy is similar to that of Greece?
What mountain range separates Italy from the rest of Europe?
What mountain range runs down the center of Italy?
What large island is part of southern Italy?
What two geographic features made the location of Rome a favorable one?
Main Ideas
 At the base of Italy’s two mountain ranges, the Alps and the Apennines, lie fertile
regions- such as the Latium plain
 Italy’s fertile plains were well used by local farmers as well as colonists from ancient
Greece.
 The city of Rome was founded on seven hills. They helped to protect it from attack.
 The Latium plain created fertile soil.
What Did You Learn?
1. Where did the Greeks live in Italy, and how did they influence Roman civilization? (263)
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2. How did Rome come to be founded, according to the two legends? (pg. 264)
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3. Why was the location of Rome a good place for a city? (pgs. 263-264)
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4. Compare the geography of ancient Greece to that of Italy. (pgs. 264-265)
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5. How did the Etruscans influence Rome? ( pg. 265)
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6. Why was Rome able to conquer the Italian peninsula?
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7. Define legions and explain why they were so effective? (pgs. 265-266)
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8. Illustrate a picture of a Roman Legionary. (pg. 266)