Rome, known for its vast empire and rich history, was divided into several kingdoms throughout its existence. These kingdoms played a significant role in shaping the political landscape and exerting influence over different regions. Let’s explore the ten kingdoms of Rome that emerged during various periods:
The 10 Kingdoms of Rome
1. Kingdom of Rome
The Kingdom of Rome was the earliest form of government in ancient Rome. It began around 753 BCE when Romulus founded the city and lasted until 509 BCE when the Roman Republic was established. During this period, Rome expanded its territory and grew in power.
2. Latin League
The Latin League was a confederation of cities in central Italy that shared common cultural and linguistic roots with Rome. It existed from the 6th century BCE until its dissolution by Rome in 338 BCE. The league served as an important ally for Rome during its early expansion.
3. Roman Republic
The Roman Republic marked a significant shift in Roman governance. Established in 509 BCE, it replaced the monarchy with a system where power resided with elected officials called senators. The Republic lasted until 27 BCE when Augustus became the first Roman Emperor.
4. Roman Empire
The Roman Empire is perhaps the most well-known period of ancient Roman history. It began with Augustus becoming Emperor and lasted from 27 BCE to 476 CE when Odoacer, a Germanic chieftain, deposed Romulus Augustus, the last Western Roman Emperor.
5. Byzantine Empire
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire emerged as a continuation of the Eastern half. The Byzantine Empire encompassed territories such as Greece, Egypt, Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), and parts of the Middle East. It lasted from 330 CE to 1453 CE.
6. Ostrogothic Kingdom
Following the collapse of the Western Roman Empire, the Ostrogothic Kingdom emerged under Theodoric the Great. It spanned Italy, parts of southern France, and portions of Spain during the 5th and 6th centuries CE.
7. Lombard Kingdom
The Lombard Kingdom was established in Italy by Germanic tribes known as Lombards in the late 6th century CE. They ruled over much of Italy until their defeat by Charlemagne in 774 CE.
8. Carolingian Empire
The Carolingian Empire was founded by Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, in 800 CE. It encompassed a large part of Western Europe, including modern-day France, Germany, Belgium, and Northern Italy.
9. Holy Roman Empire
The Holy Roman Empire is often considered a successor to the Carolingian Empire. It was formed in 962 CE when Otto I was crowned Emperor by Pope John XII. The empire consisted of various territories across Central Europe and endured until its dissolution in 1806.
10. Papal States
The Papal States were territories in central Italy under direct rule by the Pope from around the 8th century CE until their annexation by Italy in 1870. These states served as a temporal power for many Popes during medieval times.
These ten kingdoms played crucial roles in shaping Rome’s history and exerting influence over vast regions at different points in time. Understanding their significance provides valuable insights into Rome’s complex political landscape throughout its existence.