Houghton Mifflin Social Studies
Chapter 14 Lesson 3: Daily Life in Ancient Rome (pp. 440-446)
I. Rich and Poor
B. Poorer Romans lived in dirty and poorly-maintained buildings called insulae, that had no running water and little light.
C. For the majority of Romans living in crowded conditions, fire and crime were serious problems.
II. Family Life in the Empire
B. Wealthier families sent their children and even household slaves to school until age 15, after which only boys continued their education.
C. Professional people -- such as engineers -- learned through apprenticeships, not formal education.
B. There was a plentiful supply of water for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
C. The emperor provided circuses and games.
B. The Roman religion was based on rituals, especially the sacrifice of animals.
C. For the most part, Romans were tolerant of other religions in the Empire.
Lesson at a Glance Outline
A. Rich Romans lived in homes with many rooms, running water, heat, and servants.
A. In the later days of the empire, women gained more power, and laws prevented fathers from selling their children or forcing marriages.
III. Benefits of Life in Rome
A. The Roman government gave free wheat, and sometimes money, to citizens.
IV. Religious Practices
A. The Romans worshipped many gods, some of which were state gods, while others were gods of the household.
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