How Are Rome and the United States Different?

By Michael Ferguson

When comparing Rome and the United States, it becomes evident that these two entities are vastly different in various aspects. Let’s delve into the key differences that set them apart.

Cultural Heritage

Rome, the capital city of Italy, is steeped in rich cultural heritage. It stands as a testament to the ancient Roman civilization, which contributed significantly to art, architecture, philosophy, and governance. On the other hand, the United States is a relatively young country with a diverse cultural heritage comprising of various immigrant communities.

Governance

The governance systems of Rome and the United States differ greatly. Historically, Rome was governed by emperors and later transformed into a republic. In contrast, the United States is a democratic nation with a federal system that includes three branches of government: executive, legislative, and judicial.

Political Structures

In Ancient Rome, power was concentrated in the hands of emperors or consuls who held supreme authority. This centralized structure contrasts with the United States’ political structure which distributes power among federal and state governments. The President serves as both the head of state and head of government.

Law Systems

Rome’s legal system was based on civil law principles derived from ancient Roman laws such as Twelve Tables. The United States follows a common law system derived from English legal traditions but has developed its own body of laws through legislation and judicial precedents.

Religion

Rome has deep-rooted ties to Catholicism due to its historical association with Vatican City and being home to numerous churches. In contrast, religion in the United States is diverse with freedom of religion being protected by its constitution. The country houses followers of various religions including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and more.

Size and Population

Rome is a relatively small city with a population of around 2.8 million people. In comparison, the United States is a vast country with a population of approximately 330 million people. The United States encompasses diverse landscapes, climates, and regions, ranging from densely populated cities to sparsely populated rural areas.

Economy

Rome’s economy predominantly relies on tourism, cultural heritage preservation, and international organizations based in the city. The United States boasts one of the largest economies globally, characterized by diverse sectors such as technology, finance, manufacturing, agriculture, and entertainment.

Currency

In Rome, the currency used is the Euro (€), while the United States uses the US Dollar ($).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rome and the United States differ greatly in terms of cultural heritage, governance systems, religion, size and population, economy as well as legal systems. Understanding these differences helps us appreciate the unique qualities of each entity while recognizing their contributions to our global society.