Rome At Work

The Romans earned their living by farming, fishing, mining, and simple manufacturing. The government owned natural resources, such as mines, and spent large sums on roads, buildings, and other public works. Manufacturing and trade were generally financed by individuals. Rome carried on trade throughout the empire, from Britain to Egypt, and with independent countries, such as India and even China.

Some workingmen were organized by trade into collegia , or guilds. These guilds were primarily social clubs and burial associations, but often they took an active part in politics. Slaves were numerous throughout Roman times. Slaves worked in construction, in mines, in factories, in households, in agriculture, and in businesses. Some were highly skilled, and worked as artisans, chefs, teachers, and entertainers. The large number of slaves made labor comparatively cheap and discouraged the development of labor-saving devices and advances in technology.

Agriculture was the basis of Rome's economy. Good soil and a mild climate led to rich harvests of grain, vegetables, fruits, and nuts. With extensive crops of olives and grapes, Rome developed a large export market in olive oil and wine. Manufacturing was not highly developed. Bread, wine, and olive oil were practically the only foodstuffs mass-produced. Most goods, such as shoes, cutlery, and baskets, were manufactured in small artisan workshops, employing a few skilled slaves. A few products, particularly bricks, pottery, copper and bronze utensils, and glassware, were made in large factories.

Mining was important to Rome. From mines in many parts of the empire, Rome obtained metals for tools, utensils, and weapons, and stone for building. Small amounts of coal were mined for use in the forges of metalworkers.

Transportation and communications in the empire were aided by the magnificent roads that Rome built in all provinces. These highways were among Rome's greatest achievements. Rome's merchant fleet was of major importance. At the height of the empire, ships were built that carried more than 1,000 passengers or immense cargoes.