This introduction to the people of ancient Rome is packed with information about their daily lives and generously illustrated with examples of the buildings, artwork, and everyday objects they left behind as evidence of their remarkable culture. From rich and powerful emperors to entrepreneurial merchants and artisans to daring gladiators and lowly slaves, each played a role in the establishment of the largest empire the world has ever seen. An engaging portrait of a society that continues to fascinate us two thousand years after its heyday, the accessible text is sprinkled with quotes from ancient Roman writers, historians, and emperors. Ages twelve and up.