Unit 17 — Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome

Welcome back!

Among the civilizations that have most strongly influenced the modern world are Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome.

Their ideas about government, law, philosophy, science, literature, engineering, and citizenship continue to shape many societies today.

Today you will explore these remarkable civilizations and their lasting legacy.

Ancient Greece

Ancient Greece was located on a peninsula surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea.

Its mountains divided the land into many independent city-states.

Each city-state developed its own government, traditions, and way of life.

Two of the most well-known city-states were:

• Athens
• Sparta

Although they shared language and many religious beliefs, they often had different political systems and priorities.

Democracy in Athens

Athens became known for developing one of the earliest forms of democracy.

In a democracy, citizens participate in making decisions about government.

Not everyone living in Athens could vote, and Athenian democracy differed greatly from modern representative democracies.

Even so, the idea that citizens should have a voice in government has had a lasting influence throughout history.

Greek Philosophy

Ancient Greece produced many influential thinkers.

Among them were:

• Socrates
• Plato
• Aristotle

These philosophers encouraged people to:

• ask questions
• think logically
• examine evidence
• discuss ideas respectfully
• seek wisdom

Their writings continue to influence education, science, ethics, and philosophy.

Greek Achievements

Ancient Greece made important contributions in many fields.

Examples include:

• mathematics
• astronomy
• medicine
• architecture
• drama
• literature
• athletics

The Olympic Games began in Ancient Greece and continue today as an international celebration of athletic competition.

Ancient Rome

The city of Rome grew from a small settlement into one of history's largest empires.

At its greatest extent, the Roman Empire surrounded much of the Mediterranean Sea.

Roman engineers built:

• roads
• bridges
• aqueducts
• public buildings
• arenas

These structures helped unite the empire and many still stand today.

Roman Government and Law

Rome developed several forms of government over time, including:

• monarchy
• republic
• empire

The Roman Republic introduced ideas such as elected officials and written laws.

Roman law emphasized that legal rules should be recorded and applied consistently.

Many modern legal systems have been influenced by Roman law.

Engineering and Technology

Roman engineers designed impressive public works.

Examples include:

• paved roads
• aqueducts that carried fresh water
• concrete buildings
• arches
• domes

These innovations improved transportation, sanitation, and construction.

The Legacy of Greece and Rome

The civilizations of Greece and Rome continue to influence the modern world.

Their contributions include:

• democratic ideas
• philosophy
• legal systems
• engineering
• architecture
• literature
• art
• education

Many government buildings, public monuments, and educational institutions still reflect Greek and Roman ideas.

Activity

Choose either Ancient Greece or Ancient Rome.

Research:

• geography
• government
• daily life
• important leaders or thinkers
• scientific or engineering achievements
• contributions to the modern world

Create a timeline and an illustrated report explaining why this civilization remains important today.

Practice

Answer these questions.

What was a Greek city-state?

Why is Athens remembered in the history of democracy?

Who were Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle?

How did Roman engineering improve daily life?

What contributions did Roman law make?

Name three ways Greece or Rome continues to influence the modern world.

Review

Today you learned:

• Ancient Greece was organized into independent city-states
• Athens developed an early form of democracy
• Greek philosophers encouraged logical thinking and inquiry
• Ancient Rome built a vast empire with impressive engineering
• Roman law influenced many modern legal systems
• the achievements of Greece and Rome continue to shape governments, education, science, architecture, and culture

The study of Greece and Rome helps us understand many ideas and institutions that continue to influence the world today.

Looking Ahead

Next we will conclude Grade 6 by reviewing the year's major accomplishments, reflecting on the knowledge and skills you have gained, and preparing for the exciting challenges of Grade 7.