Jeremy Armstrong

Jeremy Armstrong, a Professor of Classics & Ancient History at the University of Auckland and author of Children of Mars, delves into the fascinating history of early Rome. He explores the clan-based military structure and the personal nature of warfare, revealing how myths like those of Aeneas and Romulus shaped Roman identity and served political purposes. Armstrong emphasizes the significance of early republic transitions and the impact of trauma from events like the sack of Rome, illustrating the complex foundations of imperial ambitions in Rome's development.

Join Professor Jeremy Armstrong, an expert in ancient history and author of 'The Children of Mars,' as he delves into the dramatic early transformations of Rome. He reveals how the brutal destruction of Veii in 396 BC marked the inception of Rome's imperial ambitions. With compelling anecdotes, he unpacks the profound impact of the Gallic sack on Roman identity, and how early warfare was driven by prestige rather than land. Armstrong also discusses the evolutionary nature of Rome's military and the gradual expansion that defined its early imperial identity.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Jeremy Armstrong, an expert on early Rome, delves into the complexities of Rome's origins and identity. He reveals why early Roman history is often shrouded in myth and how archaeology complicates our understanding. Armstrong explores the brutal destruction of Veii, the Gallic sack of Rome, and the city's transformation into a powerful entity. He also highlights the diverse cultural landscape of ancient Italy, the evolution of Roman warfare, and the significance of expanding citizenship and identity during this period.