Question

Farmers in the city of Rome were unable to grow and harvest enough crops to feed their population. As a result, the city was dependent upon agricultural goods produced in the provinces. This worried the leaders of the empire. They feared that if the people from the provinces realized this fact, then they might question their subjugation, rise up, and rebel. To prevent this, the republic limited the provinces' grain rations and distracted the citizens with entertainment, such as gladiatorial games. Because of this, the Roman satirist Juvenal wrote, "The common people were placated by bread and circuses."

Which statements are supported by the passage? Check all that apply.

Rome was dependent upon the provinces for food.
The provinces had the power to cause problems for Rome.
The provinces were dependent upon Rome for grain.
The gladiator games had no political purpose.

Answer 1

- Rome was dependent upon the provinces for food. (Supported — the passage says the city relied on agricultural goods from the provinces.)
- The provinces had the power to cause problems for Rome. (Supported — leaders feared provincial awareness of Rome’s dependence could lead to rebellion.)

Not supported:
- The provinces were dependent upon Rome for grain. (Not supported — the provinces supplied grain to Rome.)
- The gladiator games had no political purpose. (Not supported — the games were used to distract and placate the populace.)