What Countries Did Rome Rule?
Rome, the ancient city that gave birth to one of the greatest empires in history, had an extensive reach across different parts of the world. The Roman Empire spanned over several centuries and conquered numerous territories, establishing its dominance over vast regions.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the countries that Rome ruled during its peak.
Roman Empire: A Brief Overview
The Roman Empire reached its territorial zenith around 117 AD, under the reign of Emperor Trajan. At that time, it stretched from modern-day Britain in the northwest to Egypt in the southeast and from Spain in the west to parts of Iraq in the east.
The empire covered a significant portion of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Roman Provinces in Europe
Rome exerted control over various European territories, turning them into provinces under their administration. Some notable countries included:
- Britannia: The island of Britain was brought under Roman rule in 43 AD and remained a province until around 410 AD.
- Gaul: Present-day France was conquered by Julius Caesar during his Gallic Wars between 58-51 BC and became an essential part of the Roman Empire.
- Hispania: Spain and Portugal were incorporated into the empire after several military campaigns during the 2nd and 1st centuries BC.
- Italia: The heartland of Rome itself, Italy came under Roman control long before the empire expanded further.
- Greece: After defeating various Greek city-states, Rome absorbed Greece into its empire in 146 BC.
North Africa and the Middle East
Rome’s influence extended to Northern Africa and the Middle East, where it established several provinces:
- Egypt: One of the most prized regions of the empire, Egypt was conquered by Julius Caesar in 30 BC and became a vital source of wealth for Rome.
- Numidia: Located in present-day Algeria, Numidia was annexed by Rome around 46 BC.
- Judea: After the Roman conquest of Jerusalem in 63 BC, Judea came under Roman rule and remained so until its fall in 70 AD.
- Syria: Rome gained control over Syria during the Seleucid Wars between 192-188 BC.
Beyond Europe and the Mediterranean
The Roman Empire even extended its influence to parts of Asia:
- Anatolia: Also known as Asia Minor, this region corresponds to modern-day Turkey and was incorporated into the empire during various military campaigns.
- Pontus: Situated on the southern coast of the Black Sea, Pontus became a Roman province after its conquest by Pompey in 63 BC.
- Judaea Capta: After suppressing a Jewish rebellion, Rome reorganized Judea as Judaea Capta, a province under direct Roman administration.
The Legacy of Roman Rule
The vast territories that fell under Roman rule left a lasting impact on the world. Roman architecture, legal systems, language, and cultural practices influenced subsequent civilizations for centuries to come.
The empire’s legacy can still be seen today in the many countries that were once under Roman dominion.
In conclusion, Rome ruled over a vast array of countries across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Its empire boasted an extensive reach that left an indelible mark on history.