Ancient Rome

Great Foss: How Romans Overcame Odds in 343 BC

The battle is primarily known through the account of the Roman historian Livy, though many modern…
Understanding Roman Law Courts: A Historical Overview

This article outlines the principal courts and magistrates, distinguishes between civil and criminal proceedings, and sketches…
The Battle of Argentovaria (378 CE): Gratian’s Victory on the Rhine

By the late 4th century, the Roman Empire was divided administratively into East and West, though…
The Battle of Arelate: A Turning Point in Roman History

In 458 AD, Emperor Majorian’s Roman army achieved a significant victory against the Visigoths led by…
The Battle of Arbalo: Rome’s Early Struggles in Germania

The Battle of Arbalo, fought in 11 BC, was a tense and nearly disastrous engagement during…
Statius Albius Oppianicus: Villain of Cicero’s Pro Cluentio

Oppianicus lived in the 1st century BCE and was a prominent citizen of Larinum, a town…
Locusta of Gaul: Rome’s Most Infamous Poisoner

Locusta is often described as being from Gaul, a province roughly corresponding to modern France and parts…
The Sicarii: Dagger-Bearers of First-Century Judea

The Sicarii emerged in a period marked by foreign domination, heavy taxation, and religious tension. After…
Ancient Aspirin: Pain Relief Before the Pill

The story of aspirin traces its origins to ancient healers who used plants like willow and…
Sexual Punishments in Ancient Rome: Law, Morality, and Control

This article explores how Roman law and custom dealt with sexual misconduct, what kinds of punishments…