When did the Roman Kingdom begin and end?
The Roman Kingdom began around 753 BC and ended in 509 BC. This period covers the reigns of seven kings from Romulus to Lucius Tarquinius Superbus.
Questions about Roman Kingdom
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Where was the Roman Kingdom located geographically?
The Roman Kingdom started on the Palatine Hill along the river Tiber in central Italy. The location provided defensible hills, a ford for trade, and fertile plains for agriculture.
Who were the seven kings of the Roman Kingdom according to Livy?
Livy lists Romulus, Numa Pompilius, Tullus Hostilius, Ancus Marcius, Tarquinius Priscus, Servius Tullius, and Lucius Tarquinius Superbus as the seven kings. These rulers reigned sequentially from approximately 753 BC until 509 BC.
What powers did the king hold during the Roman Kingdom?
The king held supreme military executive and judicial authority through imperium granted by the Curiate Assembly via Lex curiata de imperio. He possessed sole ownership of imperium in Rome and could protect himself from trial throughout his lifetime.
Why is there little certainty about the history of the Roman Kingdom?
Little is certain because no records or few inscriptions from the time of the kings have survived. The Gauls destroyed many historical records when they sacked Rome after the Battle of the Allia in 390 BC.