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Roman Conquest of Italy Overview
Jan 21, 2025
History Lecture: The Roman Conquest of Italy
Introduction
Lecture by Professor Steve on the Roman conquest of Italy, focusing on Phases 3, 4, and 5.
The Roman Confederation was key to providing manpower without extensive imperial administration.
The foundation for the Roman Empire was established through this confederation.
Phases 1 & 2 Recap
Romans secured Latium by driving away enemies (Sabines, Volsci, Aequi) and allying with Latins and Hernici.
Phase 3: Roman Confederation Development (393-338 BC)
390 BC
: Battle of the River Allia, a disaster for Rome against the Gauls led by Brennus.
Gauls sacked Rome, last foreign conquest for 800 years.
Romans built the Servian wall in 387 BC.
380 BC
: Romans granted full citizenship to Tusculum, showing a willingness to share power.
First non-Roman consul from Tusculum elected in 322 BC.
Latin Revolt
: Latins and allies revolted seeking equality or independence; Romans used manpower advantage to quell the revolt.
Five categories established for control: Roman citizens, Roman colonies, Latin colonies, Municipia, and Socii (allies).
Phase 4: The Samnite Wars
Second Samnite War (326-304 BC)
Battle of the Caudine Forks: Roman defeat; led to army reforms (Manipular system).
Development of the Roman military: manipular system with smaller units, new shields, swords, and helmets.
Construction of Via Appia and Via Valeria for troop movement.
Romans eventually won the Second Samnite War, becoming the most powerful state in Italy.
Third Samnite War (298 BC)
Multiple enemies formed an alliance against Rome, but loyalty within Roman Confederation prevailed.
Battle of Sentinum: decisive Roman victory leading to peace and Roman control of Italy.
Phase 5: Conquering Magna Graecia (290-264 BC)
Greek cities in southern Italy (Magna Graecia) were wealthy but disunified.
Thurii asked Rome for help against Lucanians, leading to Roman involvement in southern Italy.
Conflict with Tarentum led to war; Tarentum allied with Pyrrhus of Epirus.
Pyrrhic War (280-275 BC)
Pyrrhus defeated Romans at Heraclea and Asculum but suffered heavy losses (Pyrrhic victories).
Romans eventually won at Malventum, using flaming arrows against elephants; Pyrrhus retreated.
Rome was now recognized as a major Mediterranean power.
By 264 BC, Rome controlled most of Italy and had a large army due to the Roman Confederation.
Conclusion
Rome's success was due to the Roman Confederation, providing vast manpower.
Rome ready to confront Carthage and Greek kingdoms, marking the start of its Mediterranean conquests.
Professor Steve invites questions through email or Zoom office hours.
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