Urban Transformation in Ancient Molise: The Integration of Larinum into the Roman State

Larinum, a pre-Roman town in Molise, transitioned from independence to municipal status with Roman citizenship in the 80s BCE. This book explores the cultural, social, and political changes associated with the Roman conquest using literary sources, settlement patterns, inscriptions, monuments, and artifacts, highlighting the importance of local isolated variability.

Format: Hardback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Larinum, a pre-Roman settlement situated in the modern region of Molise, experienced a remarkable transformation from independence to municipal status when it embraced Roman citizenship in the 80s BCE, shortly after the Social War. This pivotal period in Larinum's history sheds light on the intricate processes of cultural, social, and political change that accompanied the Roman conquest across the Italian peninsula during the first millennium BCE. This book employs a comprehensive range of evidence to craft a site biography of Larinum, spanning from 400 BCE to 100 CE, with a particular emphasis on the urban transformation that took place during the Roman conquest. What sets this study apart is its utilization of various types of evidence, including literary sources, settlement patterns, inscriptions, monuments, and artifacts. By highlighting the significance of local isolated variability in studies of Roman conquest, this work offers a narrative that complements broader accounts of this historical phenomenon.

The Roman conquest of Larinum marked a significant turning point in the town's history, leading to profound cultural, social, and political changes. The acquisition of Roman citizenship conferred upon Larinum a new sense of identity and belonging, as well as access to a wider range of resources and opportunities. This transformation was facilitated by the Roman government's policy of assimilation, which aimed to integrate conquered territories into the Roman Empire.

One of the most notable effects of the Roman conquest was the expansion of the town's urban infrastructure. The Romans built new roads, public buildings, and aqueducts, which improved transportation and communication within the town and its surrounding area. This infrastructure development facilitated trade and commerce, as well as the growth of local industries and agriculture.

The Roman conquest also brought about significant changes in Larinum's social structure. The town's population grew as a result of the influx of Roman settlers, who brought with them their own culture, language, and customs. This led to the development of a diverse and multicultural community, with a mix of native Latins, Roman colonists, and other ethnic groups.

The Roman conquest also had a profound impact on Larinum's political system. The town was incorporated into the Roman province of Italy, and its citizens were granted the right to vote and participate in local government. This led to the development of a democratic system of government, which was unique in the ancient world.

However, the Roman conquest was not without its challenges. The influx of Roman settlers and soldiers led to the displacement of many of Larinum's native inhabitants, who were forced to resettle in other parts of the empire. This displacement caused social and economic disruption, as well as cultural loss.

Despite these challenges, the Roman conquest of Larinum ultimately had a positive impact on the town's development. The town became a major center of commerce and culture, and its citizens enjoyed a higher standard of living than they had before. The town's urban infrastructure was improved, and its social structure became more diverse and inclusive.

In conclusion, the Roman conquest of Larinum was a transformative event that marked a significant turning point in the town's history. The acquisition of Roman citizenship, the expansion of the town's urban infrastructure, the development of a diverse and multicultural community, and the introduction of a democratic political system were all significant effects of this conquest. While the conquest was not without its challenges, it ultimately had a positive impact on the town's development and contributed to the broader Romanization of the Italian peninsula.

Weight: 690g
Dimension: 165 x 242 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190641436