If I had lived in ancient times, would I have chosen to become a Roman citizen? I might have! Not everyone who applied to be a citizen was accepted, but anyone could apply. .
The Romans were fierce soldiers and wonderful builders. We would have built roads all over the empire, and all roads led to Rome. In ancient Rome, Rome was the heart of the empire. Rome was a busy place; it was crowded, noisy, smoky, and dusty, with beautiful temples and public buildings.
The head of my family was the oldest male. That was my dad. My family had slightly different customs and rules, because my dad had the power to decide what the rules were for the family. Dad owned the property, and had total authority, the power of life and death, over every member of the household. Even when we become adults, he was still the boss. But, he was also responsible for the actions of any member of the house. If someone in the family committed a crime, he might be punished for something the family did.
The school day began before sunrise, as all work in Rome did. We brought candles to use until daybreak. We had a rest for lunch and an afternoon siesta, and then back to school until late afternoon. My education took place at home. If my father could read and write, he taught me to do the same. My dad instructed me in Roman law, history, customs, and physical training, and to prepare for war. Reverence for the Gods, respect for law, obedience to authority, and truthfulness, were the most important lessons. My sister was taught by my mom; they learned to spin, weave, and sew.
If I had been a Roman citizen, I would be proud. Life would be less complicated in school and I would be learning new things everyday. My Roman family and I would live each day together and enjoy every part of Roman life. .
