The Ancients The Origins of Rome's Empire
Jan 22, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Professor Jeremy Armstrong, an expert on early Rome, delves into the complexities of Rome's origins and identity. He reveals why early Roman history is often shrouded in myth and how archaeology complicates our understanding. Armstrong explores the brutal destruction of Veii, the Gallic sack of Rome, and the city's transformation into a powerful entity. He also highlights the diverse cultural landscape of ancient Italy, the evolution of Roman warfare, and the significance of expanding citizenship and identity during this period.
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Ve's Destruction As Early Imperialism
- The sack of Ve in 396 BC marks an early, brutal act of Roman imperialism that permanently removed a nearby rival.
- Rome used ritual and civic appropriation to centralize religious and economic life in the city, not just seize land.
Gauls' Sack Catalyzes Cohesion
- The Gallic sack of Rome in 390 BC shocked Romans into recognizing their vulnerability despite local dominance.
- That trauma accelerated political and military cohesion and encouraged elites to bind themselves more tightly to Rome.
Rome As A Family Alliance
- Early Rome was likely not a centralized state but a loose alliance of powerful families with fluid institutions.
- The Senate and political bodies could be reconstituted yearly, reflecting negotiation among elites.
