Geography:
The city of Rome is the capital of Italy, the European country. It is located just northwest of Greece. The Roman empire’s outstretched land made them the rulers of the Mediterranean Sea. The fact that they surrounded the entrance and exit of the Mediterranean,was the main cause of it rising to be one of the most dominating empires of ancient times.Their strategically perfect position made it easier for Rome to conquer and gain. The best places to stay comfortably and strategically safe were the seven steep hills, Aventine Hill, Caelian Hill, Capitoline HIll, Quirinal Hill, Viminal Hill, and Esquiline Hill. These hills were also home to several sacred temples. (You'll learn more about these in belief systems.)
Trade:
The resources that were available to the Romans in certain areas would also affect the economy. Some resources that were needed to make the things they sold and traded were not available in all areas. The Mediterranean Sea was a large factor of trade for many civilizations, therefore Rome also got a monopoly on trade. This made them even wealthier. Their prosperity revolved around trade, the most vital economical way of growth. (This is still true today!) They took advantage of being a peninsula and having an empire around the Mediterranean Sea by also building a strong navy, just to enforce that they were the leaders.The most important port was Ostia because it was the nearest major port to Rome. Ostia was located in Africa, just south of Rome across the Mediterranean. The Romans traded a variety of materials, from meat and corn to pottery and unique tools.(Ex: like materials for weapons and such.) Their perfect location in the Mediterranean Sea gave them an abundance of civilizations to trade with. All thanks to their geography.
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