Watch Rome: A History of the City. Lecture 2 of 6. The Republic.

Rome: A History of the City is a six-part lecture series from Dr. William J. Neidinger. The second installment, titled The Republic focuses on the period of Rome's history when it was ruled by elected officials known as consuls, attracting viewers interested in history and the politics of ancient Rome. Throughout the approximately documentary, Neidinger delves into the various facets of the Roman Republic, providing context on its founding, institutions, and rulers. He describes the social structure of Rome under the Republic and highlights notable periods of growth and decline. The lecture series is well-suited for viewers looking to learn about the rise of Rome and the fundamental principles that shaped the course of its history.

Beginning with a brief overview of Rome's early mythological roots, Neidinger spends the majority of the lecture talking about the founding of the Republic in 509 BCE, when the Roman monarchy was overthrown. He then delves into the core principles that governed the Republic, such as the separation of powers, the use of checks and balances to prevent corruption, and the importance of civic duty.

As Rome grew, so too did its government bureaucracy. Neidinger discusses the various branches of the Roman government, from the Senate, which acted as a deliberative body, to the popular assemblies that ensured Roman citizens had a voice in government. He also covers the role of the magistrates and consuls, who were elected officials in charge of the executive branch, and discusses some of the famous consuls of the period, such as Julius Caesar.

The Republic period saw significant social change in Rome, and Neidinger takes time to describe these transformations. For instance, he covers the rise of the plebeians, the largest social class in Rome, who eventually gained political rights and representation in the government. Additionally, Neidinger discusses the role of slavery in Rome and how it was used to support the economy and social hierarchy.

Throughout the lecture, Neidinger makes a point to highlight notable moments and figures from Rome's history. He covers the period of expansion in the late Republic, when Rome's territorial control extended beyond its borders and into foreign lands. He also covers prominent military leaders such as Scipio Africanus and Hannibal, whose legacies defined the period.

Ultimately, The Republic era came to an end in 27 BCE, when the Senate bestowed the title Augustus upon Julius Caesar's heir, effectively turning Rome from a republic into an empire. Neidinger's lecture ends with a discussion of this transition and its implications for Rome's future.

Overall, Rome: A History of the City, Lecture 2: The Republic is a comprehensive lecture for those interested in Roman history and the principles that shaped Rome's development into a powerful empire. Neidinger's knowledge and expertise on the subject matter is evident throughout the presentation, making it an informative and enjoyable learning experience.

Rome: A History of the City. Lecture 2 of 6. The Republic. is a documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes.