Ancient Rome

Books in the Knowing Ancient History which cover topics now embraced by Key Stage 2 were originally written to encourage slow learners in the old Middle School age range. It was also intended that the books could serve as reference material.

Here are some of the included drawings : Battering Ram, Siege Tower, Onager, Fasces, Trimphal Arch, House Plan, Workshop, Hypocaust, Masseur's Equipment, Toilet Articles, Aqueduct Construction, Temple, Christian Signs, Plough, Quern, Litter, Stove, Utensils, Crane, Surgical instruments.

From Chapter 6 City of Rome
To overcome the danger (of fire) the Emperor Augustus set up a permanent Fire Brigade and he also established a Police Force to patrol the streets at night and clear the dark alleyways of thieves.

From Chapter 4 Warfare
The Roman army also used artillery and there were several different types of catapults employed in battle. Some of them fired large iron arrows and were used against enemy troops. Others fired stones and could be turned against the wooden walls of enemy forts.

From Chapter 7 Houses
Houses in Ancient Rome were heated by the Roman system of central heating called a hypocaust which sent warm air circulating under the floors of the room.

From Chapter 12 Costume
The Romans did not use steel needles and most of their dressmaking was done with rather clumsy needles made of bronze or bone.