THE ROMAN CONQUEST OF CENTRAL ITALY (to 287)

  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 (maps).
    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, by sharing dangers and rewards, and by reducing barriers between herself and her allies, 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 Latins and Romans.  E.g., colonies at Cosa and at Norba and at Torreastura
    4. Rome succeeded because at no time (actually, at one time, but it was already too late) did her enemies combine against her.
  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. Roman Success
    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 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.
      2. Dividing enemy, taking advantage of enemies unwillingness 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 (proof 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.
      4. Former enemies became firm friends and committed to a state that organized the common defense and guaranteed order.
  4. Attitudes and values
    1. The fact of war: Servian walls.
    2. Benefits of warfare:
  5. Sources

§13 The treaties with Carthage
§§14 and 16: on the character of Rome's less urbanized enemies
§19: unconditional surrender => patronage, gift
§§ 20 and 21: on treaties. Characterize..
§ 22: incorportation