Amelie von Zumbusch

To this day, the Romans are admired for their technological know-how and massive, well-designed public works projects. Readers learn how the Romans ensured a clean water supply for their cities, used volcanic ash to make long-lasting concrete, created the world's first professional army, and much more. Photographs of structures that are standing to this day help demonstrate the ingenuity of Roman engineers and the skill of Roman workers.

The family was central to life in ancient Rome. Explore the roles of women, children, slaves, and the all-powerful paterfamilias, or head of the family. Find out what that Romans enjoyed doing in their free time and learn what their food, clothing, and homes were like. Readers will be fascinated (even if some are slightly nauseated by the fact that the Romans considered peacock brains an exotic delicacy).

The Romans really profited from geography. Rome had a pleasant climate, rich soil, natural defenses, and easy access to the Mediterranean. It was the perfect spot from which to conquer the known world. Readers learn how Rome used its geographical advantages to launch an empire filled with extensive road and aqueduct systems and towns designed in its own image.

Describes Hippopotamuses including where they live and how they are unique.