THE ROMAN CONQUEST/"UNIFICATION" OF CENTRAL ITALY (to 287)

This is the first of two complementary lectures that deal with the first major phase of Roman expansion (in Italy). The division is artificial, for Roman expansion was based on strategic al as well as constitutional factors that were interrelated.

The Problem: in 509 Rome was still an insignificant state, one that was very much threatened by powerful neighbors to the north (the Etruscans), to the east (the Italic tribes), and to the south (the Greek states). Yet by 287, that is within two centuries, Rome had become the dominant power in Italy. How had this happened? Naked aggression / imperialism /brutality are not sufficient as explanations.

Consider that Italy was a dangerous place... It was by no means self-evident that Rome would become the dominant power.

• the Etruscans. Loosely allied yet competitive. Prosperous, and more urbanized than Rome. Expansionistic. Had controlled Rome.
• Italic peoples. Semi-nomadic, expansionistic and aggressive especially toward settled, urbanized population. AKA: Samnities, Sabellians, Oscans, etc.
• Greek colonies. Culturally unified but policially autonomous and independent. Highly urbanized. Not expansionistic, but ready to summon aid from the Greek motherland when attacked
• Gauls another semi-nomadic group that was pushing into the Po Valley and had succeeded in driving out the Etruscans and eventually sacking Rome itself.
• Carthaginians also on the horizon.

Mapping the Expansion.

1. Introduction
   1. Little in the way of authentic record survives of this period beyond the tradition of continuous warfare (on a seasonal basis) and the gradual extension of Roman domination first through Latium and then to all of central Italy (509; 380).
   2. The chief interest lies development of techniques of self-defense, not only in military sense, but also and especially in the diplomatic sphere. By providing for common defense against more distant and dangerous foes (the Italic tribes and the Gauls), by sharing dangers and rewards, and by reducing barriers between herself and her allies [inclusion], Rome not only won the cooperation of those nearest and most similar to her (urban communities), but became the dominant power in central Italy.
   3. Crucial to her military and diplomatic efforts was the allowance for the settlement of colonists drawn jointly from her Latin allies and Romans. E.g., colonies at Cosa and at Norba and at Torreastura.
   4. In brief: Rome succeeded because
      1. at no time (actually, at one time, but it was already too late) did her enemies combine against her. That is, Rome was often the least unattractive choice. A diplomatic success.
      2. her inclusive policies (vertical and horizontal integration)
2. Important Events in the Unification Process:
   1. Events to 390.
   2. Consequences of Gallic disaster: Rome's willingness to learn the lessons of disaster, to change her tactics and retain the loyalty of close allies establish a pattern we will see again and again.
   3. After the Great Latin Revolt (338) new treaty offered
      1. Local autonomy whether Roman or half-citizenship.
      2. Some of those who had been loyal and were culturally the closest, given full Roman citizenship
      3. other communities made separate agreements with Rome, but had no formal relations with one another (Rome becomes the true 'hub' of the Latin world. The Latins received a "half-citizenship" or "civitas sine suffragio" (i.e., they had protection could not vote).
3. The Evidence
   1. §§14 and 16: on the character of Rome's less urbanized enemies
   2. §19: unconditional surrender; but §§ 20 and 21: on treaties. => patronage, gift
   3. § 22: incorporation
   4. §13 The treaties with Carthage
4. Roman Success ...Analysis of the Problem noted above.
   1. In two phases: from 509 to 340, slow but steady extension of hegemony throughout Latium. Many setbacks, but evolution of a defensive and administrative policy that would serve Rome well. From 340-264, rapid and dramatic extension of hegemony, building on the lessons and resources developed in the first phase. By 264, she is the dominant power in Italy [a summary map] south of the Po.
   2. Success in short term due to several factors
      1. Tactics of interior lines with military road (viae Appia and Valeria), field camp, colony, legion. Superior weapons
      2. Dividing enemy, taking advantage of the fact that individual enemies were unwilling to assist others also threatened by Rome...a diplomatic success.
      3. No respect for treaties if advantage to be won (relations with Samnites are instructive)
      4. Superior manpower and organization. Rome now has army of 40- 50,000 men in comparison to the 6,000 of 480.
   3. Success in long term and of critical value in conflict with Carthage and the Hellenistic World. Rome generally gave very easy terms; she took some land, but:
      1. No direct rule or taxation, instead local autonomy and troops for common defense (evidence that her first concern was defense).
      2. Extension of share in her citizenship where appropriate (revolutionary!)
      3. As an aristocratic state, Rome also confirmed aristocratic rule elsewhere; many aristocrats were willing to sacrifice some autonomy of their state in order to have their positions secured by alliance with Rome and perhaps access to Roman magistracies.

      Conclusion: Former enemies became firm friends and committed to a state that organized the common defense, guaranteed order and operated in an inclusive manner.

5. Attitudes and values
   1. The reality of war: walls and gates, yet still seasonal
   2. And there were benefits of to be gained by waging war successfully.