ROME Power & Glory Volume IV: Grasp of Empire (DVD, 1998, 52 min)

***Witness the ancient world come to life - and see history in all its drama. Filmed in 10 countries, this documentary combines location footage of ancient monuments, detailed reenactments, period art and writings, and fascinating insights from scholars and public figures. ***GRASP OF EMPIRE chronicles how Rome appropriates the best of many civilizations have to offer and spreads its culture throughout the West. At its heights, Rome rules over 50 million people, including Etruscans, Greeks, Gauls, and Egyptians. Efficient cities are built and linked by paved roads. Yet such progress comes at a price. While Romans initially welcome the conquered peoples into the Empire, they eventually begin enslaving them. Taxes grow unbearable for the common man, and the gap between rich and poor widens. The seeds are sown for Rome's eventual downfall. Extra Features include Timeline, Colosseum House of Terror, & Pompeii. (Total running time 52 minutes).