Entry #1 August 25, 509 BCE
My name is Cassian, and I lived as a Patrician in a city called Rome. The geography of the city of Rome is quite beneficial to its population. Our precious city spreads out over seven hills, giving us the ability to watch for intruders and enemies. Rome is a piece of land known as a peninsula, with the Medditeranian Sea west and south and the Adriatic Sea to the east. To the north there is a mountain range known as the Alps that serve as a geographical barrier for us. Another beneficial aspect to the geography of my home is the Tiber River which flows through the west part of Rome. This famous river allows trade to happen between Rome and other city-states and also provides quality farming soil.
A large amount of important events have happened in the past months here in Rome. The Etruscan kings, former leaders, were accused of crime and kicked out of our city. A new law was passed that stated that anyone plotting to seize power as king would be killed. A unique government system was newly developed called a republic, and the power is in the hands of us, the citizens, who have the ability to elect our leaders. Right now, the Roman Republic is being led by two consuls whom were chosen by the men in my class, the Patricians. Below the consuls is the Senate, which is made up of 300 men (upper class) who were chosen for life. Under the Senate is the assembly made up of the remainder of the people.
As for social classes, there are three different classes- patricians, plebians, and slave. he patricians are wealthy landowners, like me, that make up the ruling class and possess the most power. We can vote, are required to pay taxes, and can serve in the army. Out of the three classes, we have the most power and are able to hold the highest government positions. The plebians, who make up majority of the population, are usually shopkeepers, small farm owners, or artisans. Like us patricians, plebeians can vote, yet the difference is that they cannot vote. Slaves, who hold no power, make up one third of the Roman population. The slavery of these people has no relation to there ethnicity or skin color. Oh no, my wife needs help with our son...be back soon.