Why did early Romans have to work hard?

Social Studies · Middle School · Wed Jan 13 2021

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Early Romans had to work hard because their survival and progress depended on it. Here are some logical reasons detailing why hard work was essential for them:

1. Agriculture: Most early Romans were farmers who needed to work the land to produce food for their families and communities. Farming was labor-intensive, involving tilling the soil, planting seeds, tending crops, and harvesting, all without the aid of modern machinery.

2. Building a City: Rome began as a small city-state and the early Romans had to put in considerable effort into building infrastructures such as homes, public buildings, roads, and aqueducts. This required hard physical labor, planning, and organization.

3. Defense: Early Rome was often under threat from neighboring tribes and powers. The Romans had to be diligent in maintaining and defending their city. This meant training as soldiers, building and fortifying defenses, and staying vigilant against potential invasions.

4. Trade and Commerce: To supplement their agriculture, early Romans engaged in trade. This could mean long and arduous journeys by land or sea, braving the elements, and risking robberies or piracy.

5. Social Structure: The Roman social structure placed importance on hard work and personal virtue. Industriousness was a valued trait, and citizens were expected to contribute to the welfare of the city-state.

6. Expansion: As Rome expanded, it required constant effort to integrate new territories, manage logistics, and maintain order. Roman legions marched across vast distances to conquer and secure new provinces.

Due to these factors, hard work became ingrained in Roman culture and was seen as necessary for the success and expansion of Roman civilization.