Roman Imperialism - 01

This course is a multi-faceted investigation of Rome’s drive for empire. Between the fourth and first centuries BC, the Romans expanded their territory across the Mediterranean region, growing from an Italian city to a state that encompassed Italy, Gaul, Spain, Greece, Macedonia, Egypt, and areas of North Africa and Western Asia. This was achieved with military might, but also with institutions that were meticulously implemented and (largely) maintained for many centuries, leading to one of the most successful extensions of power and managerial prowess in recorded history. Still, there are questions surrounding the intentions behind Rome’s expansion. One question continually raised is: was Roman imperialism a necessary defense mechanism – reactions to powerful and aggressive neighbors – or was Rome just a militaristic empire with a cultural ethos inextricable from a thirst for power? We will study not only Rome’s push for geopolitical dominance, but also aspects such as the intrusive urban systems that followed colonization, environmental imperialism (a byproduct of an agricultural economy and exploiting other natural resources), cultural assimilation, and decolonization (or the state of territories after the Empire withdrew from them).

 

In Person: This is an in-person course that follows the published schedule of course meetings and requires attendance at all sessions. Tufts courses are designed to provide high-quality and interactive courses to Tufts and visiting students. For more information about course policies and expectations, please visit https://universitycollege.tufts.edu/policies#University-Policies