The annals of history are replete with contributions from various civilizations, but few have had as profound an impact as the ancient Romans. While many are familiar with their aqueducts, sewage systems, Latin language, and extensive road networks, there are several lesser-known Roman innovations that have left an indelible mark on our world. These inventions, though not as celebrated, have significantly shaped modern society.
Apartment Buildings: The Birth of Urban Living
By the dawn of the first century BC, Rome had burgeoned into a sprawling metropolis, grappling with the challenges of housing its rapidly growing population, which had swelled to around one million. The Romans addressed this issue by pioneering the construction of multi-story apartment buildings, known as insulae (meaning "islands").
The Structure and Function of Insulae
Design and Construction: These buildings, which could reach up to seven stories, were constructed to house the lower and middle classes. The ground floors typically housed shops, taverns, and eateries, while the upper floors were residential.
Sanitation and Water Supply: According to the Greek geographer Strabo, some insulae were equipped with sanitation and running water, though this was not universal, especially for the upper floors.
Fire Hazards: Due to the wooden construction of the upper floors, fires were a common hazard. Each insula had a caretaker, known as an insularius, responsible for fire protection and maintenance.
The Scale of Urbanization
By the fourth century AD, Rome had approximately 1,800 private houses and over 45,000 insulae. With each insula housing up to 40 people, this meant that around 1.8 million people lived in these apartment buildings. This urban housing model was unique to Rome, with few examples found in other Roman cities like Herculaneum and Ostia.
Public Press: The Dawn of Daily News
In ancient Rome, citizens eager for the latest news would head to the Roman Forum to read the Acta Diurna (Daily Events), the world's first form of a public press. This innovation emerged during the Roman Republic in the second century BC.
The Acta Diurna
Content: Initially, the Acta Diurna listed public notices, trial outcomes, and legal proceedings. Over time, it expanded to include notable births, deaths, marriages, and other significant events.
Distribution: These daily updates were carved on stone or metal and displayed in public places. During the Roman Empire, copies were sent to provincial governors to disseminate information across the empire.
Legacy: The Acta Diurna ceased publication in the mid-fourth century AD when the capital moved to Constantinople. Despite this, its influence on modern journalism is undeniable.
The Legal Profession: Foundations of Modern Law
The Roman legal system's influence on contemporary legal frameworks is well-known. However, the Romans also played a crucial role in establishing the legal profession and formal legal education.
Evolution of the Legal Profession
Early Legal Representation: In ancient Greece, orators represented individuals in court, but there was no formal legal profession. Orators could not charge for their services, and anyone could represent themselves.
Professionalization: In the first century AD, Emperor Claudius allowed lawyers to practice professionally, setting a fee cap of 10,000 sesterces. This marked the beginning of a specialized class of legal professionals.
Legal Education: By the fourth century AD, legal education became formalized. Emperor Leo mandated that new advocates provide testimonials from their teachers, and by the sixth century AD, a four-year legal study course was required for admission to the advocates' collegium.
Post and Courier Service: The Backbone of Roman Communication
The vast expanse of the Roman Empire necessitated an efficient communication system. Recognizing this, Emperor Augustus established the cursus publicus (public transport) at the end of the first century BC.
The Cursus Publicus
Structure: This state-run courier and carriage system consisted of forts and stations along major Roman roads. These relay points, known as stationes, provided horses and vehicles for messengers.
Usage: The service was primarily for state use, requiring a certificate (diploma) issued by the emperor. It facilitated the transmission of messages, officials, and tax revenues.
Efficiency: The typical speed of the cursus publicus was 50 miles (80 km) per day, with urgent messages traveling even faster. This efficiency was bolstered by the extensive Roman road network.
Legacy and Influence
The cursus publicus was so effective that it continued to function even after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. It was adopted by Theodoric, the king of the Ostrogoths, and later by the Byzantine Empire. The Tabula Peutingeriana, a seven-meter-long map, provides a detailed view of the Roman road network and rest stops, highlighting the sophistication of this ancient postal system.
Conclusion
While the aqueducts, roads, and language of ancient Rome are well-celebrated, these lesser-known innovations—apartment buildings, public press, the legal profession, and the post and courier service—have also profoundly influenced modern society. Their legacy is a testament to the ingenuity and foresight of the Romans, whose contributions continue to shape our world today.
Interesting Stats
Urban Population: By the fourth century AD, Rome's population living in insulae was approximately 1.8 million, highlighting the city's advanced urban planning.
Speed of Communication: The cursus publicus could cover 50 miles (80 km) per day, a remarkable feat for ancient times, ensuring swift communication across the vast Roman Empire.
