Mary Beard: The Origins Of The Ancient Roman Empire

The Roman Empire's rise from small town to global superpower is a story of brutal conquest and unique innovation. This documentary charts Rome's incredible journey from its mythical, bloody origins with Romulus and Remus to its total domination of the Mediterranean. Our historian investigates the key to Rome’s success: a relentless war machine fueled by a clever system of alliances that turned defeated enemies into future soldiers for the Roman army.

We explore the defining conflicts that shaped the empire, from the epic superpower showdown with Carthage to the civil wars that destroyed the Republic. Witness the rise of legendary figures like Pompey the Great and Julius Caesar, whose personal ambitions led to the assassination that changed history forever. Finally, discover how Augustus, the first emperor, forged a new world order, establishing an ideology of empire and 'peace through victory' that would last for centuries.

0:00 The Mythical & Bloody Origins of Rome
13:25 How Rome Conquered The Mediterranean
34:45 Caesar & Pompey: The Death of the Republic
48:22 Augustus: Forging The First Emperor

From Rome, Empire Without Limit with Mary Beard. Series 1, Episode 1

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