A session to understand Roman power from a general at its peak
Curriculum reference: 5e History Program — Rome, from City to Empire
Total time: 45 minutes
Project the map of the Roman Empire in the 1st century BC. Present Caesar: proconsul of Gaul, victorious general. He speaks from Rome, at the height of his power. Reminder: he does not know what awaits him. Distribute the map of Roman provinces.
Students question Caesar on Roman power: his legions, his methods of governance, his view on subjugated peoples. Encourage questions about the Gauls, slaves, allies — angles that challenge Caesar.
Confront Caesar's vision with other perspectives. What do we know about Gallic resistance (Vercingetorix)? What do Roman sources themselves say? Build a mind map of the Roman vision of the empire.
Did Rome bring 'civilization' or impose domination? Students defend a position based on Caesar's answers and their historical knowledge.
12 questions ready to use in class — students can also come up with their own.
What makes the Roman legions so formidable in your opinion?
How do you manage the peoples you conquer? Do you integrate them into Rome?
Vercingetorix was a brave Gallic leader. What do you really think of him?
What is the difference between a 'ally' people of Rome and a subjugated people?
Are slaves necessary for the greatness of Rome?
How does Rome maintain order in its distant provinces?
What do you think of the peoples at the borders of the Empire?
Does Rome have limits to its expansion? How far can it go?
What does Rome concretely bring to the peoples it governs?
Are the legionaries loyal to you personally or to Rome?
How do you finance your military campaigns and your army?
In a hundred years, will Rome still be the mistress of the Mediterranean world?
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