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Panem et Circensus

10/9/2019

74 Comments

 
Blog Post for Panem et Circensus: The Roman Empire's Bread and Circuses​
  • 1. What were Panem et Circensus?
  • 2. When, and more importantly WHY, did the Bread and Circuses begin?
  • 3. What was the relationship between
    • Patricians
    • the “Games”
    • and the plebian mob?
  • 4. How did Rome’s Bread and Circuses affect:
    • Roman society and culture?
    • Roman government?
    • Roman economics?
    • Were these effects POSITIVE or NEGATIVE? WHY?
  • 5. Many historians have compared America to Rome for many reasons, including our global military presence, form of government to even our former usage of slaves. However, one of the biggest could be comparing Bread and Circuses. Does the modern United States have Bread and Circuses like the ancient Romans? Why or why not?
*Feel free to do additional research!
**​Due on Sunday at 12:00 NOON
74 Comments
Vanity Enriquez
10/10/2019 08:45:36 am

1. Panem et Circuses was sustenance and entertainment provided by the government. There was distributions of foods, public baths, gladiators, exotic animals, chariot races, sports competition and theater representation.
2. The Bread and Circuses began in 122 B.C. They began because so the hands of the Empire were keeping the population peaceful and giving them the opportunity to voice themselves in the places of performance.
3. The relationship between the “Games”, patricians and the plebian mob is that the organization of games was an occasion to climb up the ladder of political popularity.
4. Rome’s Bread and Circuses affected society because supplying food and entertainment gave the poor people, a less chance of rebellioning. It controlled the public, they were satisfied what with they were getting.
5. America has a resemblance to the Bread and Circuses. Nowadays you can go to your favorite sports stadium to enjoy a game or simply watch it at home for enjoyment.

Reply
Anthony Chapman
10/10/2019 09:09:24 am

1. It meant bread and circuses which was to eat food and watch entertainment.
2. It was started to control the city’s mobs and to give the poor some grain. It started late first century early second century AD.
3. The patricians had to appease the plebeian mobs with the games so Rome and other cities wouldn’t get out of control.
4. Roman society now had created entertainment for themselves, while Roman gladiators became engraved into Roman culture because of the “games”. It gave the Patricians a new way of trying to appease the plebeians that weren’t sustaining healthy living conditions. Emperors paid for them with taxes collected from the empire that the Romans had control of. Some of them were positive but mostly economics was negative because it was causing Roman Emperors to lose money for other things than the bread and circuses.
5. I would say yes because if we look at the movies we see a lot of action and drama that entices us just like the Romans had with their “games” but also with every sport/movie is made to sit many people and each sport/movie has a snack or food item associated with watching it. For example, movies is popcorn, baseball is peanuts in a bag, and American football is chicken wings. These all have been carried down from past Roman culture involving bread and circuses.

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Haylie Morrow
10/10/2019 09:24:08 am

1. Panem et Circenses where called Bred and Circuses. This is when people gather in stands and watch violence fights take place in the arena as they watch and eat.

2. Bread and circuses began to rise in 122 B.C. They were created to help keep the population well, peaceful and the opportunity to voice themselves at the performances.

3. The patricians had exclusive stands for them but Caio Gracco eventually had them taken down. Ceaser, a patrician, help organize games and kept the plebeians happy, so they sided with him.

4. The public began demanding the games so they ended up being more costly. Then all the provinces of the empire had various game too. The games were used as a political strategy. The economics were affected when 10,000,000 kilos of gold, 20 million kilos of silver and 500,000 slaves were earned by Trajan. These had mainly positive effects but they where overall kind of negative because the common people lost lots of money and the games where more costly.

5. The US still has Bread and circuses now. It's mainly shown in sports. Violent games like football have food being served there. Even if you watch the games at home, most people still eat and watch. Things like reality TV shows distract people from real news and modern government activities and actions.

Reply
Quedemah Quijano Keveer
10/10/2019 09:39:36 pm

1:Panem et Circensus were bloody games played for the entertainment of romans, and also to distract them from Economic and social problems.
2: It began at about 122 B.C, and it was created as a ladder to climb up the levels of political popularity.
3:Patricians would use bread and circuses to gain popularity, plebeians watched them and forgot about problems around them, and patricians got plebeians to like them better by putting on better shows.
4:Bread and circuses affected Rome in lots of ways, 1 being that people gained a lot of popularity and power through them, most notably people like Caesar and Augustus. It kept plebeians from noticing that that Rome had economic and social problems, and it might have caused the fall of Rome. Rome’s culture was changed by bread and circuses, because it helped change Rome from republic to empire.
5:America has bread and circuses like Rome, but they are disguised as smaller things, like soccer, football, tennis, basketball, the olympics, and etc. It entertains people by having 2 teams or more fight until 1 team wins, and it gives the winners popularity. The winners also get money and fame, just like in Rome. They are very similar, except that Rome very gruesome while America is more modernized.

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John Asuncion
10/11/2019 11:59:18 pm

1. "Panem et Circenses," or "bread and circuses" was a political strategy first invented by Juvenal as a way for the government to control their citizens and the restless plebeian mobs. By using free entertainment through gladiator fights, and giving out free grain to the poor, they were able to appease the masses that were part of their social and economic problems at the time.

2. Beginning at the rise of 122 B.C., "bread and circuses" was believed to be the solution to civil unrest, or the restless riots of mobs who are unsatisfied of the decisions in government. By fulfilling the needs of their people, Roman leaders have figured out that this formula reduced the acts of the plebeian mobs that would complain and rebel against the empire.

3. No matter what class you were, rich and poor Romans alike loved these spectacular events. From chariot races in Circus Maximus to portrayals of past battles, the citizens of Rome cheered for their leaders with them providing free entertainment in return. Spectators were able to wager on their favorite teams, rooting on the Reds, Greens, Blues or Whites. Organizing these games would be the opportunity for facilitators and participants to gain popularity among their fans and acquire a political presence. When people demanded, they gave out all they have; Trajan, for example, walked away with a sum of 10 million kilos of gold from setting up games such as the time where he organized battles involving over 10,000 gladiators that slayed about 11,000 wild animals.

4. Not only was it the most effective way to gain power, it also created the idea that there were only two things that people desired in the Roman world: bread and circuses, or more appropriately, free sustenance and entertainment. This concept brought together the once disagreeing social classes of Rome, by equally providing to both Patrician and Plebeian desires. The government continued this program of setting up large-scale projects that were said to have sparked the economy by providing jobs and promoting overall well-being of the Roman society; for example, farmers were able to provide the food in exchange for shares from the government. Although said to be one of the greatest parts of Pax Romana, many did not realize the negative side effects; that they were experiencing a slow decline led by a corrupted government that eventually turned a self-sufficient, working society into a mob of citizens, dependent on their government for the means of a comfortable life.

5. Although "bread and circuses" have been around until the time of western Rome, modern countries such as the United States still implement this in daily affairs. Even today, people still haven't changed; people still riot when there is a change they don't agree with and indulge in the free leisures funded by the government. This strategy has been evolving and straying less and less from the negative aspects such as the use of hardcore violence for entertainment. Instead, we have job opportunities to ever-increasing public works, and participating charities to provide to the homeless. This improvement of this ancient concept has made it more useful rather than contributing to the decline of the United States like how "bread and circuses" led to the destruction of the Roman empire.

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Enoch Yaya
10/12/2019 11:32:45 am

What were Panem et Circensus?
Panem et Circensus, also known as Bread and Circuses, was the formula for the well-being of the population, and thus a political strategy. This offered a variety of pleasures such as : the distribution of food, public baths, gladiators, chariot races, sport competition, and theater representations.
When, and more importantly WHY, did the bread and Circuses begin?
Bread and Circuses risen at 122 B.C.E as a gathering only for the wealthy classes, but soon common citizens were also able to gather and watch gladiator combat. Bread and Circuses began for the purpose of keeping the population peaceful, and at the same time giving the emperors the opportunity to voice themselves in these places of performance; an occasion to climb up the ladder of political popularity.
What was the relationship between Patricians, The “Games” and the Plebeian mob?
Both Plebeians and Patricians were absorbed by two things above all others, its food supplies and the “Games”. Here was once-proud people, whose government had been their servant, who had finally succumbed to the blandishments of clever political adventurers. They had gradually relinquished their sovereignty to government administrators to whom they had granted absolute powers, in return for food and entertainment. And the surprising about this insidious progression is that, at the time, few realized that they were witnessing the slow destruction of a people by a corruption that would eventually change a nation of self-reliant, courageous, sovereign individuals into a mob, dependent upon their government for the means of sustaining life.
How did Rome’s bread and circuses affect Romans’ society and culture, government, and economics? Were these POSITIVE or NEGATIVE? WHY?
Rome’s bread and circuses affected Romans society by helping the Romans trade with Germans, Spanish, Welsh, Britannic, black Africans, nomadic Russians and Jews from Jerusalem after the gladiator combat. Bread and circuses became part of Roman culture, where theater tragedies and comedies originated from, Breads and circuses changed Roman culture of Romans normally being courageous and independent, into a mob, dependent upon their government for the means of sustaining life. Breads and circuses was a way for wealthy classes to gain political popularity. Breads and Circuses became the main focus of Rome as a way to gain money. Rome’s economy was affected as Plebeians such as farmers supplied the grain, the pork, and the olive oil, at or above parity prices, for the government’s doles, but with not much profit and income. This soon caused Rome to suicide.
Many historians have compared America to Rome for many reasons, including our global military presence, form of government to even our former usage of slaves. However, one of the biggest could be comparing Bread and Circuses. Does the modern United States have Bread and Circuses like the ancient Romans? Why or why not?
Modern United States have bread and circuses such as the theater, we have theaters that shows comedic and tragic plays such as Romeo and Juliet. Also, sports today is like Breads and Circuses in Ancient Rome. Sports such as Football, Basketball and Soccer are meant to entertain Americans.

Reply
Robert Joseph Jordan
10/12/2019 12:41:56 pm

1. Panem et Circensus were events and gatherings to provide food, baths, theater, sports, and so forth to all people of Rome to ensure good health and peace.

2. Panem et Circensus were created around 122 BCE. Juvenal created this system to keep the Roman citizens from rioting against the government. Providing food satisfied the poor, and providing entertainment, whether it be chariot races, theatrical works, or gladiator fights, satisfied everybody.

3. Both patricians and plebeians enjoyed watching the "Games." These games were one of the only things that had brought both the rich and poor to do the same activity; however, the patricians were to be entertained, and everyone one else was to be distracted.

4. Roman society and culture became almost dependent on "bread and circuses," with citizens demanding more and more from them as time went on. Most, if not all, Romans would take part in this system with their choices of food, baths, and many other things they could possibly want. Roman government benefited from this system at the time since making the public happy was an effective way of preventing any riots or rebellions. Roman economics suffered overall since patricians were able to profit off these events, further widening the wealth gap. All of these effects were negative because they all contributed to the fall of Rome. The already bad wealth gap widened even more, no one went against the bad system since it made everybody happy, and the demand for "bread and circuses" only increased. Beneath the joy and satisfaction was an ever growing issue for the Roman Empire.

5. The modern United States has Bread and Circuses very similar to those of Ancient Rome. America has theaters, soup kitchens, competitive sports, NASCAR racing, and other events that are very reminiscent of those that took place in Rome. Soup kitchens are meant to feed the poor & homeless, and the other things are meant to provide entertainment. However, many of these are not funded by the government to prevent a crisis; they are created by normal people to satisfy what others want or need.

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Edgar Jimenez Huerta(p2)
10/12/2019 01:24:58 pm

1.Panem et Circenses (bread and circuses): entertainment and sustenance provided by the government to appease public discontent.

2.Bread and Circuses began with the rise of Julius Caesar and also later with Emperor Augustus around the middle of Pax Romana. Bread and Circuses were created because Emperor Augustus was aware of the risk that plebeians if not kept fed and entertained they would create mobs which would lead to riots and rebelling. Which he created Bread and Circuses as a way to keep them fed and entertained so that they would not riot against him, so this was a system of bribery.

3.The relationship between the “Games” and the patricians was great they enjoyed food and had amazing seats to view the entertainment, however for the plebeians many enjoyed the games and were fed not nearly enough as the patricians, however some were forced to join the “Games” because the Gladiators would not hold long enough. The Plebeians still believed that the “Games” were the best thing that has ever happened to them because they were fed and had entertainment while in their older times they had to fight for scraps.

4.The Bread and Circuses affected the Roman society by how plebeians were allowed to enter and watch the games with food and a form of entertainment, also the economy was heavily affected by how every match would gain enormous amounts of gold, silver, and slaves. To add on many businesses began migrating to these Circuses because they attracted large crowds which meant business began thriving. However, many of these Circuses were also religious in origin and lead as a distraction so that many wouldn’t see the human hungers which bread and circuses could never appease. The effects were neither negative nor positive because the citizens needed material sustenance and needs recreation but also lead to major problems that led to the defeat in their empire by the Alaric.

5.The modern United States still has bread and circuses like the ancient Romans in how we use sports as a form of entertainment to distract us from real issues that the government doesn't want us to know. Many Americans are happy seeing something violent or something dealing with competition, for example, boxing, soccer, basketball, football, etc. Which also they all offer food and drinks to keep them satisfied. These aren’t the only form of bread and circuses in the United States there are many more examples of this, like reality shows or any other media, these all help the government take away rights or distracts us from issues that we never see because of these bread and circuses.

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Rebeca Esqueda
10/12/2019 05:11:19 pm

1)The bread and circuses was a variety of pleasures such as free food, entertainment and theatre representation.
2)The bread and circuses began in 122 B.C when the forum was used in gladiator combat. The bread and circuses were created because the poor or the plebeian class won’t complain or revolt against the Roman empire.
3)The relationship between the patricians, the “games”and the plebeian class was that no matter what class you were in people had fun and enjoyed the games because the patricians wanted their “team” to win and so did the Plebeians and the gladiators wanted themselves to win so they can survive.
4)Rome’s bread and circuses affected their society by having no problems with the plebeian mob or even complaints about the Roman empire. Romans were well known for having very violent games and i feel that Roman culture was affected by the games and how they all came together to see if their “teams” would win. The Roman economics were affected by the bread and circuses because when Julius Caesar was famous he organized these amazing games and borrowed money that later turn and invested into propaganda earning him an important position in office and making money that he later paid back all the money he used. These effects were positive because they didn’t cause any problems to the Roman empire or even the Romans.
5)I think that America did have bread and circuses like ancient Rome because the term “bread and circuses” is just a political strategy to which Romans got away with but not really because later had the “the fall of Rome” so what America had for its bread and circuses is the bread America selling manufactured items like clothes and furniture made in another country is much cheaper purchasing here and the circus is television, gaming consoles and of course smartphones half of the world’s population has a smartphone which has everything they depend on so people are so caught up on social media they hardly look at the world's problems for example climate change.

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Mailyn Martinez
10/12/2019 10:20:53 pm

1. Panem et Circenses was the formula of the well being population and a political strategy. This offered a variety of pleasures.
2. Panem et circenses was in 122 B.C. These things started in order for the poor and slaves to fight in the wars and they were to be called gladiators. They also made these in order for them to keep them away from problems.
3. The relationship between patricians, the “games”, and the plebian mob was the patricians would watch the “games” that included the plebian mob. The patricians would watch these big “games” while the plebian/ slaves would be in them and go against others.
4. Bread and circenses affected Roman society because it would start other stuff with other countries. It would also affect the Roman government because it would cause problems with the servants and plebians. The Roman economics was affected in a good way because it brought them all together and was entertainment. These effects were negative and positive because they brought they environment together but had also caused bad problems.
5. The modern United States does have bread and circenses because we still do things to entertain us and bring us together but it affects others and takes others away from each other.

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Philip M. Silva
10/12/2019 10:45:59 pm

1. Panem et Circuses were large shows that were open to the public for free and every attendee would receive bread for attending shows.
2. Panem et Circuses started beginning around 122 BCE because the roman empire wanted their more poor citizens from getting rowdy and rebelling due to them having less food,the shows would often allow people to have food.
3. The relationship between patricians, the "games" and plebeians is that two could not have existed without the other two. If plebeians didn't exist then there may have never been a panem et circuses, without panem et circuses, maybe rome might not have fallen as soon and as quick as it did.
4. The roman bread and circuses affected rome in many ways, one way it changed rome for the better is that it kept peace among the roman empire and would keep plebeians from complaining and rebelling against the roman empire, pretty cool if I do say so myself. Unfortunately the "games" also negatively impacted rome because people became so dependent on the games that citizens started to become pretty lazy and only really lived to go see events at Colosseum's.
5. Compared to roman bread and circuses, we do not have as crazy ones as the roman empire had. The closest thing you'll get to a modern bread and circuses is the Tournament of Kings at Excalibur, and that's a Vegas only event. A more widely known example could be comedy shows or performances at restaurants and bars. On a technical note, we do have panem et circuses in modern day america, but if we go off the idea of what the bread and circuses were actually used for, then we have absolutely nothing close to what the roman empire had.
-Philip M. Silva (A.K.A. Pj)

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Kevin Murillo
10/12/2019 11:46:50 pm

1. Panem et Circensus are government organized events that provided amusement to the citizens of Rome. Sports, chariot races, and gladiator fights were commonly shown at these events with free food provided by the government.

2. Bread and Circuses started in 122 B.C. Bread and Circuses was created to help calm down and distract plebeians that were rioting in Rome, and to keep their bellies full.

3. The relationship between Bread and Circuses to Patricians was that Patricians were usually the ones that hosted or either helped pay for the event and food to hide problems and corruption in their Empire.The games helped distract the plebian mob from the Romans.

4. Roman citizens, once a society where they cared about their government, are now just distracted by food and entertainment. The society also now relied on slaves for tasks that they were too lazy to do. For culture, it possibly had more people create art on events that were super crazy and had people out of their seats. Because of the distracted citizens, the Roman government was beginning to become corrupt and pass laws that were terrible for the people and economy. Bread and Circuses did a major change to the economy of Rome, although it gave more business to some people, it completely gave no incentive for people to create new inventions for Rome because of the high tax rates that the government created. So instead of new inventions and ideas, people instead relied on government assistance and welfare to just enjoy the games and free food. I believe that these are all negative, even though it made people happy at the time, bread and circuses made the greatest empire fall because of corruption that was ignored because of the games.

5, I do believe that we have Bread and Circuses like in Rome, not completely like Rome but a modernized version of it. We have sport events almost every week that completely distracts people from political problems that are happening that day. We have our own version of theater which are movies or T.V shows, and if they are super popular, they could possibly distract the media or people from viewing the issue and discuss about it. Although the government aren't funding these movies and sport events, candidates that are running for a spot in office take the chance to put advertisements on the show spreading their campaign to gain more voters. I do believe that distractions and debates about the wrong issues are going to be the fall of America, just like Rome.

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Dario Calata
10/13/2019 12:07:54 am

Panem et Circensus Questions


1. Panem et Circensus is referring to a spectacular show of gladiators killing themselves to entertain the people. Rome’s largest race course, the government provided free grain to feed the poor. The general prosperity hid underlying social and economic problems. Their government give them bread to keep them entertain.
2. The Bread and Circuses began with Augustus and ended with Marcus Aurelius, which is known as the period of the “Pax Romana.” The government did this to solve social and economic problems, however these problems would face problems that could not be solved with “bread and circuses.”
3. The Patricians were landholding upper class, all government officials were also Patricians. The Plebeian were the farmer, the merchant, the artisans, and the traders who made up the bulk of the population. The Patricians use the Bread and Circuses to keep the plebeian distracted from the social and economic problems the empire has.
4. The bread and circuses affect the society and culture in a big magnitude because the life of a gladiator, who is a slave, is in the hands of the audience. The government in one hand payed with the taxes that they collected from the empire only to keep the city’s restless mobs pacify. In the case of the economy, Bread and Circuses help to unify the rich and the poor because both loved spectacular entertainment. The regular population, didn’t notice the economic problems at first thanks to this distraction. I think this activity was positive because it gave the opportunity to a slave to receive freedom.
5. In our country almost all the important legal activities are transmitted in the network. This media is one of the most distracting tools for people. Internet is a free card to investigate on anything you want, everyone, mostly teenager, are using the mass media tool to play video games.

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Randy Lopez
10/13/2019 08:37:56 am

1- Panem et Circuses was know as " Bread & Circuses " was entertainment provided by government to appease public. Had variety of pleasures like: distribution of food, public baths, gladiator, exotic animals and chariot races. It kept the population peaceful
2- Bread & Circuses began in 122 BC. The Roman government began Bread and Circuses program to prevent civil unrest within the large empire. Roman leaders believed that if these two needs were met ( food & entertainment ) the poor would be less likely to notice and complain.
3- The patricians made the laws, owned the lands and were the generals over the army. Plebians couldn't hold public office and were not even allowed to marry patricians. In 494 BC the plebians began to fight against the rule of patricians . Patricians always had more power in Rome than the plebians.
4- Roman politicians passed laws in 140 BC to keep the votes of poker citizens, by intro grain dole giving out cheap food & entertainment Bread & Circuses became the most effective way to rise the power. It was negative because they all had something to do against the poor.
5- Yes, we can find similarities between our current governments actions and those of this Roman political policy.
ex) Rome faced yawning gulf between rich & poor. Now America we have increased gap between rich & poor
ex) Emperors eventually spend 1/2 their day attending games, and chariot races. Now government spending funds on baseball and football stadiums.

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nautica diaz
10/13/2019 09:33:53 am

2. the Bread and Circuses begain bc the people wanted to show who was powerful and who was not they also kept the people happy.they used the slaves for roles of the show and et. the bread and the circuses began around (i think) 140 bc.

3.the relationships between the Patricians the “Games”and the plebian mob was that the patricians had to work to take care of there familys and pay their taxesand so for the reward (something like that) they got to go watch the games and the games were called the bread and the circuses.the plebian mob is a working class and famers craftsmans and etc.


4.Rome’s Bread and Circuses affected Roman society bc of the voteing of the poor people.lt affected the culture bc of maybe if the people who made up the bread and the cicuses maybe we would have never had entertainment like that in the past and is that never happend then it would be very diffrent. to me i think these affects were both postive and negative. its postive bc the people were happy about wachting these thing and it was negative bc the slaves we dieing and thats bad.



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Alyssa Jackson
10/13/2019 09:35:05 am

1. Panem et circenses was a type of entertainment in roman times were two gladiators would fight to the death in an arena, the coliseum or other competitive games that usually led to death.
2. The games started around 122 B.C. and it was meant to keep the poor people in poverty happy, so they wouldn't revolt. With the poor people happy, the emperor wouldn't have to worry about mobs and being over run.
3. In the games the gladiators were usually criminals, phelbians or war prisoners. Fighting in the games could count as prison time for criminals and if you survived the games you became famous. Patricians got the best seats in the coliseum though
4. The games affected the culture because it became so important to the people, like a holiday. It brought the patricians and plebeians together as one people. It helped with the government because it kept the people under control which helped protect the government from angry mobs. This definitely influenced economics because when an event was thrown they made a lot of money, that was paid by the people. Also those who survived or won could become rich and make a lot of money. I would say this had a positive and negative affect because first of all, it kept the people under control which protected the government. Secondly, it brought the people together, not divided by social classes. But it was also negative, simply the fact that their own people were killed makes it awful.
5. Just like Rome, America is a republic. They both have leaders and lower level leaders to help them with the government and control different parts of the society. America also has the division of social classes. There are some people who are extremely rich and others who are homeless with no money. We can also see forms of hierarchy in our society, men are treated better than women and are unequal. The formed stereotypes have an influence on the people and what they can do. Not that long ago we too were using slaves to do labor and so did Rome, but we stopped the usage of slaves and made them free people. America got something like Panem Et circuses, except our form of entertainment does not involve death. We have different ways of entertainment, for example movie theaters which is where we watch shows and movies. The Olympics especially because that event originated from Rome and it is such an important event in our society. We also watch sports games, either in big stadiums or through the television.

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Dillen Holbo
10/13/2019 10:08:37 am

Dillen Holbo
10/9/2019
3rd Period
Panem et Circensus

1) Panem et Circensus were formulas for the well-being of the population as well as a political strategy.
2) Bread and Circensus began in 122 BC as an occasion to become more politically popular.
3)The “Games” were entertainment that the Patricians elected for the public in order to keep the Plebians from rioting and rebelling against the government and upper classes.
4)Roman society and culture is affected because it caused a form of “sport” and “plays” of past events such as wars. As for government, the games were successful in their practice of avoiding plebeians from rebelling for many years however it did cause a lot of corruption to thrive in the government due to keeping the public from rebelling and making decisions. Economically, there were free grain, free entertainment, and controlled food prices, causing a dependable market. The games also gave autocrats the ability to become rich in prizes. These effects were mostly positive because the games were effective and made the public and government happy.
5)I think that many things could be considered the Bread and Circuses of modern America, however I think if we do have any, it’s not directly linked to government like it was in Rome. Many people compared sports to bread and circuses, for example, and while they do cause entertainment for the public and the betting system does offer economic gain they are not linked directly to the government in order to distract us from governmental issues. Therefore, we in modern America do not have a direct Bread and Circuses like the Romans did.

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Keiko Romero
10/13/2019 10:13:27 am

1. Panem et Circensus or "bread and circuses" was the formula for the well being of the population, and thus a political strategy. The bread and circuses offered pleasures such as food distribution, public baths, gladiators, etc.

2. The bread and circuses' origin was religious. They believed that the evil of it all wasn't in the bread and circuses but rather in people's willingness to sell their rights for desires such as full stomachs and games.

3. The relationship between the patricians, the games, and the plebeian mob was that the plebeian mob was becoming demanding and started to organize performances that were bigger and better. As a result, Octavian Augustus and the patricians upped the ante and would pit people together in the games. For example. 10,000 men may go head to head with 3,500 ferocious African animals.

4. Rome's Bread & Circuses affected the society and culture by building the Coliseum. The Coliseum, which still stands today and is a landmark in Rome, was constructed for the bread and circuses. The chariot races, gladiator matches, etc. took place here and was a big deal in Roman society and culture. The bread and circuses affected Roman government because it kept the society peaceful and not being dependent on the government. The bread and circuses affected Roman economics by getting rewards from the games. For example, Trajan had a sum of 10,000,000 kilos of gold, 20,000,000 kilos of silver, and 500,000 slaves. These effects were positive because it boosted Rome in means of society, culture, government, and economics.

5. Modern day America does have their own type of bread and circus. Any type of sports game is a type of bread and circus. People crowd into a stadium and cheer on the team of their choice.

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Denisse Garcia
10/13/2019 10:33:16 am

1.Panem et Circensus was an entertainment with food for the romans. This was also known Bread and circuses.
2.Bread and Circuses began in the first and second century A.D. It began as Julis Cesar used it as a stragey to gain favor of the public over politicians. They two used Bread and Circuses as a stragey to gain power.
3.The relationship betwfree votes from the underclasses to become more powerful, since most of them were senaators. The games was a stagey that Julis Cesar used to gain his popularity. These games ended up being a distraction for the public as politicians gain more money and power. Before the plebian mob was seeking for better goverments and did not like the way politicians were controling. The politcians in the other hand did not want to give up their power and instead gave them games to watch, food to stuff themselves and more money forn the politcs.
4.Rome affected society to become a miltay approach and it view Rome as the greatest games seen as a symbol of ancient time culurally. Goverment wise, Rome began becoming a republic. Since the Bread and circuses was just a distraction Cesar used to his advantage to make Rome a republic. As this was happening thought the poloiticians ended up getting to much power. The economy was effected when the oublic became to distracted to see the politican's buisness rising. It was a negative turn for Roman becuase Rome was falling. Politics losy supporters, taxes rised, and upper classes became to weathly that they focused only on themselves.
4.Yes, modern America is like Bread and Circuses because of smiliar entertainments and our goverments. Eventhough we do not have animals fighting animals or men fighting men till death, we still have our distractions. One of the biggest in fact is social media. Everyone seems to get caught up to the lastest of new artist to new celebriaties. We have focued on the drama from youtubers rather then focusing on the leaders we have. The fact that less people are voting and we don't see what these politicians reprsent is a downfall.

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Antonio Marquez
10/13/2019 10:43:03 am

1. Panem et Circuses, “bread and circuses” were varieties of entertainment for the Roman population.
2. The Bread and Circuses began in 122 B.C. and were started to keep the population pleasant and untroubled. The government almost used it as a power of the Roman population.
3. The Patricians used the “Games” as a way to rank up in the society and become rich. An example of this would be Caesar. He became famous for the impressive games that he had organized. Although the games were organized by borrowed money, he was able to pay it all back and earn high positions in office. Due to this many people (plebians) looked up to and respected him.
4. Rome’s Bread and Circuses affected their society and culture because it became a big part of it. It didn’t matter if you were poor or rich anyone could watch the bread and circuses. The poor people got to have free grains, of coarse they would enjoy it. The bread and circuses affected the government because for some people bread and circuses was a way for them to rank higher in society and even place in the office (government). Bread and circuses affected the Roman’s economics because some people were able to get rich off of this weather it would be actual money weath or rich in prizes.
5. The modern United States does have a form of bread and circuses like the ancient Romans although not as intense. For example, we don’t have men fighting to the death like the gladiators. Although, we do have men and women who do boxing and forms of fighting. In a way we do have a very similar form of bread and circuses just like Rome. In the United States we have many different forms of entertainment for the enjoyment of the population much like the Romans have done.

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Omar Perez Torres
10/13/2019 10:43:38 am

1.) “Panem et Circenses” or “bread and circuses” were social events that presented games such as sports competition, gladiators, chariot races, exotic animals, and supplying of food (bread).

2.) Bread and Circuses began around 122 B.C. The poor classes were being excluded from viewing gladiator battles, leading to the destruction of the reserved stands, by Caio Gracco. The games were then construed for people to move up in popularity.

3.) The relationship between the Patricians and the games was that it supplied the government good fortune and this connects to the plebeians because they were the main suppliers for the games and were extremely fascinated by them.

4.) Bread and Circuses affected the roman empires in many ways. For starters, by a social point of view, it brought many people together. Whether they were excited for the death of the opposing gladiator, they were taking baths together, or they were in the theatre looking for a companion.
In a government standpoint we can refer back to Juvenal’s words, “Now that no one buys our votes, the public has long since cast off its cares; the people that once bestowed commands, consulships, legions and all else, now meddles no more and longs eagerly for just two things, bread and circuses.” This quote is so intriguing because Rome, once a government that everyone adored and glorified has been replaced by exotic games and food.
Economically, the government was spending crazy money. Farmers were supplying olive oil, grain, and pork. The government was buying crazy animals from neighboring countries. The taxes were also going down and people were given less rent and welfare.

5.) I definitely agree that the Roman, Bread and Circuses can be compared by modern United States. Americans are obsessed with their sports, from football, baseball, basketball, and hockey (Golden Knights). We bet on the team we go and buy food during these events. When people cast bets and are there supporting their team, they feel they are voicing their opinion just like the plebeians did.

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Terrance Acfalle
10/13/2019 10:52:07 am

1. Panem et circensus was a system and political strategy used for the well being of the Roman population. They used different pleasures like entertainment, food, and baths. This kept the population peaceful and gave them a chance to show what they had in the performances.
2. Panem et circenses began in 122 B.C. They began because Roman leaders thought that with entertainment and food that the civil war within the empire. It made the plebs happy which prevented riots and ensured the republic from becoming an empire.
3. The Patricians organized all the games as the Plebian mob demanded more and more of them. This made the poor feel involved and gifted so they didn’t revolt or complain about their places in society.
4. The roman economy was positively affected by the bread and circuses. The more the “games” grew the more people it attracted. This made it easier to get more money. The bread and circuses definitely affected the society. It positively affected it for the leaders and government as they can control them easier. But negatively controlled the citizens and they didn’t even know it. There were also thousands of people enslaved. Not just in the society but neighboring countries too.
5. Yes the modern United States has bread and circuses just like the ancient Romans. United States uses propaganda to distract the citizens. Bread and circuses influence the people and make the spend their money to help with the country’s economy. America’s bread and circuses are just like ancient rome’s, entertainment like sporting events, movies and festivals. We are also very influenced by technology.

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Aaliyah Orozco
10/13/2019 10:53:05 am

Panem et Circenses meaning “bread and circuses” was a political strategy that pleased the people. Bread and Circuses began at around 122 B.C. These events began because Caesar wanted to entertain the public and distract the people from bigger issues like legions and voting. They stopped caring about things like that and were completely distracted by the bread and circuses. The relation between patricians, the games, and the plebian mob was that Caesar, which was part of the patricians, borrowed lots of money for these games to happen. He borrowed this money and started earning a higher position with the patricians. This related with the plebian mob because all though Caesar used this as a political strategy the plebians loved him and eventually Caesar began the Roman Empire. Bread and Circuses affected Rome society and culture because the games entertained the people with battles between men and animals or even men on men. It became a part of roman culture to attend these games, not only were there games but there were also theater performances where plays on love and tragedy were performed, culture was brought out in these plays as well. Bread and Circuses affected Roman government because they made a lot of money from these events. Economy was affected because a lot of jobs were obtained from these games, for example the building process of The Coliseum, the effects of these games were positive. In the United States does have modern Bread and Circuses. Americans usually find pleasure in eating and watching people compete. Government gives money to these big companies to keep us entertained and distract us from bigger issues with politics. All the competitions Americans watch such as sports, car races, and professional fighting also tend to offer the people who watch, food and drinks just like the Roman games. We may not have battles where men kill other men for the entertainment of the people but we do have competitions between each other where other people observe while they binge on food and soft drinks or beer while being completely distracted to even care about what the government is doing.

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Melissa Een
10/13/2019 11:13:09 am

America is filled with bread and circuses. Perhaps they are not quite as murderous as bread and circuses in Roman times, but they are still there. We have the internet, Netflix, online games, sports, youtube, social media, and hundreds of other forms of modern bread and circuses. We have an entire entertainment industry -hundreds of people whose sole purpose is to create product for the masses. We have live sports as well: wrestling, football, baseball, hockey, and a lot of other sports that I neither remember nor care about. In fact, we have more varieties of bread and circuses than the Romans did.
They serve the same purpose as the bread and circuses of old. In order to keep people contented and working, we have free online entertainment. People who work all day can come home at night, watch a comedy, and think “Maybe life doesn’t suck after all” even if it does.

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Gabriela Davila
10/13/2019 11:19:01 am

World history panem et circenses
1)Panem et circenses means bread and circuses. Bread and circuses was a form of entertainment. It consisted of chariot races, public baths, exotic animals, & plays.
2)Panem et circenses began in 122 B.C. It was created for entertainment purposes. It was also used as a political strategy. It kept the population peaceful and gave them a way to voice themselves.
3)The games kept the plebeians satisfied. It kept them fed and entertained so riots wouldn't break out. Patricians relationship with the games was that it gave them something to do in their free time and show social status.
4)Bread and circuses created a more peaceful society. It helped their economics because it gave the poor plebeians food to eat. The roman government had more control because of bread and circuses and less riots going on. It had a positive effect on the Rome because of how many problems it solved.
5)Yes, the united states has bread and circuses. It is not directly like bread and circuses but its something similar to it. The Romans used bread and circuses for many reasons but one of them was to keep the plebeians fed and not rioting. In America we have food stamps and other services to help the social class that is similar to plebeians. That keeps them fed and avoid rebellions.

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Arturo Esquivel
10/13/2019 11:19:56 am

1. Bread and Circuses was the offering of free food and entertainment to large masses of people to keep them distracted and gain their support. It was used by Augustus to control his citizens. It was thought of and invented by Juvenal.


2. It was believed to be a way to control people and an effective way to gain political support while also distracting them. It started in ancient Rome during the reign of Augustus.


3. When talking about how patricians and the plebeian mob are related both social classes did not discriminate and often complained if they did not get what they desired. Both patricians and the plebeian mob also adored free entertainment and free food. By distracting roman citizens through the method of Bread and Circuses, rulers of Rome at the time were allowed to anything they could without much of the citizens disagreeing.


4. Bread and Circuses certainly helped improve Rome’s economy by providing free entertainment as well as boosting Rome’s citizens morale. In the end it inevitably led to
the fall of the Roman empire.


5. Yes, modern America does have Bread and Circuses similar to ancient Rome. Free shows, concerts and or entertainment is pretty common. Free food can be found in certain places and is common as well.

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Josh Gonzalez
10/13/2019 11:21:52 am

1. Panem et Circensus or Bread and Circuses was an event, gathering, form of entertainment, and most importantly a political strategy. Brought about by Juvenal these games were held in a massive coliseum meant to hold all of Rome, they consisted of activities such as gladiatorial fights, exotic animals, naval recreations, chariot races, theater, and sports. As well as providing this captivating entertainment it gave sustenance to those less fortunate than the others through free food such as bread, making attending the games an irresistible force.
2. Bread and circuses truly began in 140 BCE when laws were passed to make providing these free games and food for the poor legal through a grain dole. Though more important is the why, that being simply to hold control over the people. The thought process is that if they provide the people with free bead and games these people will be less likely to revolt against government. It was a political strategy invented to stave political unrest. Thus allowing emperors to rule with little consequence.
3. The games were a force wielded by patricians used to control plebeians. A once free and sovereign individuals transformed into a mob dependent on the government for the most basic of needs. Allowing the patricians to do as they please ruling in whatever way they so desire. A most deceptive way for them to obtain more power.
4. Society and culture was much less aware with the political and historical aspects of themselves as they became all encompassed in the captivating nature of the games almost becoming a culture in and of itself. Government was as good as it had ever been for the people on top, being able to rule as they desired and with little to no repercussions. Economics were booming government jobs were secure, farmers had constant customer that being the government, merchants and store owners had an extremely popular place of business, and public assistance was extremely beneficial to those in need. With this said I cannot in good conscious say these effects were positive. It robbed society of its culture, led to strange and corrupt governments with reliant people, And an economy with high taxes and an anti risk capital entrepreneur culture.
5. While not necessarily as pronounced as the Bread and Circuses of ancient Rome these trends and tactics can been seen on a large scale in modern America. Similar to Rome we are a people dependent on a government that largely we have little control over, and have allowed this to happen due to so many new forms of cheap food and captivating entertainment. The Internet, TV, news, video games, sports, stadiums, movies, music, magazines, these are all easy and cheap forms of entertainment that the government has some degree of control over. On the other end its food both in the form of cheap junk food and USDA food distribution. Both of these qualities are the major negatives that led to the downfall of Rome. The result of this is similarities to Rome on an uncanny level, unstable economies for entrepreneurs, cheap housing programs, homeless individuals, and manual labor prevalent in lower economic areas.

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Sequoia Hall
10/13/2019 11:25:52 am


Panem et Circenses, commonly known as Bread and Circuses, is a political strategy and mechanism that was and is still used to influence the mass within a civilization. It additionally, keeps peace and harmony while also providing citizens with entertainment and food. Ancient Rome used the Bread and Circuses strategy for years on end, making the tactic flourish after the initial republic government conformed into an empire in 27 BC. An ancient Roman poet by the name of Juvenal devised this political strategy with a goal to prevent backlash, revolts, and at the same time hide addition problems within the society (like the wealth gap.) Men, women, patricians, and plebeians in ancient Rome could all share the joy of Bread and Circuses, making the citizens of Rome willing and content. The activities in ancient Rome’s Bread and Circuses contained gladiator fights, exotic animals, chariot racing, the distribution of food, public baths, sports competitions, and theater representation.

The Bread and Circuses games, on top of keeping citizens entertained and fed, affected Roman citizens in other ways as well. The senate are composed with patricians and the patricians can use the plebeian mob and population to help them advance in their career. By paying and organizing events, patricians can gain power and support from fed and entertained plebeians.Caesar did this in his youth and gained a supportive group along with a great reputation and they showered him with honor.

In addition, it affected Rome’s society, culture, government, and economics as well. For starters, Bread and Circuses was a major event in ancient Rome, it grew with popularity over time. Therefore, demand for more increased.

It also affected culture. Hot springs and public bath areas are forms of their culture. Roman citizens would attend public baths to socialize rather than bathe. It was built as a recreational activity for Bread and Circuses and it became a common thing to go to the public baths to exchange opinions, talk, play ball, and pass the time. Secondly, the Bread and Circuses origin was religion festivals and celebrations. Religions were easy to include, giving people additional satisfaction.

Roman government was also found to be affected from Bread and Circuses. Like stated, there was patrician’s methods of gaining reputation and advancing in their career within the government that affected it as a whole. Caesar conformed the once republic into an empire, it all starting with the games and his reputation on the rise. Unfortunately, there was also some despicable acts the government can be deemed responsible to. A previous roman emperor, Caligula, sent innocent civilians to participate in the deadly games, cutting out their tongue so they couldn’t cry for help. Despite the acts government did do some good which affected economics. Jobs, promotion of general welfare, and pride were offered during the games. More food needs to be supplied, fighters are always wanted, providing Rome with increasing jobs.

Overall,the effects from Bread and Circuses differ. Some are good, others are bad. An obvious example of a good effect is how people were fed and entertained. It keeps the population happy which is typically a good thing. However, a bad effect is how some of the innocent civilians were forced to participate and sacrifice themselves for the entertainment of others.

Like ancient Rome, modern United States also has Bread and Circuses. There isn’t anything extreme along the lines of life or death, like gladiator fights, however sports are large. American football or any of the common sports today is an example. American citizens attend and watch the matches with an expectation to be entertained and even fed since food is available.

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Melody E
10/13/2019 11:32:22 am

1. Panem et Circensus, also known as “Bread and Circus”, are a political strategy used by the Romans’ emperors in the time of around the rise of Rome’s empire had began, which could be around 122 B.C. (Or after the Punic War had ended) This involved (mainly emperors) the practice of distributing food, giving luxury(such as the public bath), and entertainment for the people. This source of influential power from the people had made themselves unknowingly aware of the corruption that “Bread and Circuses” had effected on towards their whole civilization.

2. ”Bread and Circuses”, in short, started at the rise of around 122 BC where the rise of entertainment such as gladiator combats who were firstly arrived into Rome’s society. These practices of entertaining the public where to serve the purpose of gaining the emperor’s power and control over Rome’s population while, in doing so, distracted their people from the unknown corruption of power that was obtained by the emperors overtime.

3. In relation towards how “Bread and Circuses” has on towards the population of Rome is mostly kept controlled and somewhat beneficial towards its influence between the classes. For Patricians, it’s the increase of overall entertainment (for example gladiators and chariot races) and given on recreational structures (such as the public baths that were used for sending out news to one another or in turn hangout with the other people of Rome. For the plebeian, however, they were mainly kept by the increase of the pricing for their crops which will result in towards more money to feed and raise their family. For ‘the Games’, the major effect will be the use of entertainment for the people ( since prisoners, slaves, and sentenced criminals were used to represent as gladiators which were killed off during these ‘games’ ). Overall, these benefits for both Patricians and Plebeians in Rome help kept in control over any occurrence of forming mobs towards society and also fully applied roles towards each class of people.

4. The majority of affects from “Bread and Circuses” were mostly negative remarks towards Rome’s society. First off, at this time, people were mainly obsessed by the overall entertainment and distribution of food to know why they do it in the first place. This act had distracted the real problem of what they’re actually facing which is favoring the emperors over the senate. This form of gaining power over the population is the source of corruption over both the government system and economic system. Senate’s loses power over Rome to emperors and faced a threat towards the problems of high taxes and low distributions of food towards the land. Secondly, their culture were becoming too corrupted by the gain of power that hard-work and labor were no longer praised and seek during the rise of the empire, which has affected arts, literature, and the history of the people’s opinions of turning to only food and entertainment influences. Thirdly, their society is becoming too violent with these games and have widely become famous for its popularity of these cruel entertainment made for the people, in turn made themselves go farther in depth of the increase of wealth gap between the class of people because of the popular attraction and free give away of food. These changes on Rome’s government, economics, culture, and society are negative results of the “Bread and Circuses” practice.

5. In the case of the people in America, there are similar features that we share from many of Rome’s culture and especially government. We do in fact share the common aspect of “Bread and Circuses” events here in America. In a more non-violent way, government faced on elections towards their role in society and depending on the people’s vote counts their political power and control (of laws, rules, rights, etc. towards the population). We as a society face a great change when becoming influenced by whom is in control. The offering from the presidents are which I think is a great example to how they use similarly to the Rome’s “bread and circuses” practices, since it’s like a bribe demand on what the people will vote for in society. I would think the majority will pick from the necessaries and choose the option of food, equal rights, jobs/careers, and money, which the presidents will have to compete for power in the government system. I feel as though the whole system is falling towards the same trend of people choosing what is desirable and favor the leader who shows or extends their likeness towards society. Overall, America (I feel) is much in towards the same path that Rome had fallen over for in the past and it felt like we could be towards into the corruption of power, however Rome doesn’t have the enforced complex system of gove

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Angel Brillon
10/13/2019 11:38:12 am

1. The Panem et Circenses or the bread and circus is a formula for the well being of the population. Like entertainment for the population such as distributions of food, public baths, gladiators, exotic animals, chariot races, sport competitions, and theater representation. It was also a politcal strategy to "win" over the population.

2. It was juvenal that coined this system, a mechanism of influental power. It was made to have a peaceful population. But also a political strategy that can help them get voted or gain a identity.

3. The games are the majority of gladiators or prisoners of war and slaves. They were forced to fight or die. Also criminals of the law are sometimes forced into the arena to be certainly be killed by sword. Or by ferocious animals.
The plevians or middle class love the arena fights that teams were made team red and blue.

4. It provided jobs for people who didnt have one and promote general welfare. The government had a large scale public works. It creates more income from the government.

5. Yes we have bread and circuses such as sports teams. They use their "likeness" over sports related propaganda or supports non profit organization.

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Grace Haugen
10/13/2019 11:38:53 am

1. Panem et Circensus, translating to Bread and Circuses or Bread and Games, was a formula to keep the population of a civilization happy and satisfied by providing food, and entertainment in the forms of sports competitions, theater, and the fighting of exotic animals. They were offered many pleasures to keep a population peaceful while still allowing them to have a voice.
2. The Bread and Circuses begun in Ancient Rome during the second century around 122 B.C., the system coined by a Roman poet named Juvenal. It begun to keep the Roman civilization peaceful, as they believed the Romans only needed food supplies and entertainment to stay happy.
3. The relationship between patricians, the games, and plebians are who is participating and who is watching. Plebians are much lower class, and therefore they are made to compete in sports, theater, and the games for the patrician's amusement.
4. Rome's Bread and Circuses affected the society and culture of their civilization by bringing popularity to things like the Olympics, and theater, plays, reenactment of wars, and things of that sort, the Romans making the Olympics widely known and part of their culture. It affected their government by making it the easiest way to rise to power; if one were to provide everything the Romans wanted, they would easily be elected into a higher power, and it kept the empire strong. It affected Roman economics by keeping things cheap and available, but it made the wealth gap between patricians and plebians grow larger. These effects were negative, as they eventually had the Roman Empire collapse.
5. Yes, the United States still has Bread and Circuses. They offer food for cheap and offer things like theater, shows, and sports, most of which is widely available to most, in order to keep citizens happy. It can make it easier to rise into power for elections as well, for example, politicians offering to make things like food and housing more available to the lower and poorer classes.

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Josiah Wilson
10/13/2019 11:44:40 am

Bread and circuses were essentially spectacles. Events at which food and entertainment were provided. Starting in 122 B.C. the purpose of these gatherings was to pacify the crowds that attended. By giving them food and entertainment they would be distracted and not really notice how bad their lives may have been or how the government treated them. Due to patricians abusing their privileges and plebeians having few rights, conflicts arose. Such was again the purpose of the games. It turned the Romans from a strong, independent people into a sad bunch dependent upon government, which in a way sort of just gave government more power over them. These shows also tended to cost quite a bit of money. Bread and circuses can be seen in many forms one way or another even in america today. Three interesting and feasible theories I found include one of churches which, generally speaking, rise and fall in popularity depending on the type of church based on what people want. In times of complexity traditional churches offer a black and white simplistic viewpoint which to some is comforting. In times of simplicity liberal churches offer more complexity. In another way welfare is an interesting comparison as well. Much unemployment is suspected to be voluntary as people would rather stay idle due to them seeing most jobs for which they are applicable too lowly or low paid. Another interesting viewpoint is that the games were a way to get rid of weakness as compassion ans empathy were frowned upon or seen of feminine, whereas things which scare us or that we don't want to be used against us ( I believe the examples were drones) we use against other countries constantly. Similarly to how the Romans killed compassion and promoted brutalization of civilians to ensure complacency, many things surrounding us cause a gap in empathy.

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Malia Hernandez-Silva
10/13/2019 11:50:04 am

1. What were Panem et Circensus?
Panem et Circensus is the bread and circuses. It was for most of the population and how they got their excitement. The Panem et Circensus consists of chariot races, exotic animals, theater experiences, etc..

2. When, and more importantly WHY, did the Bread and Circuses begin?
The bread and circuses began in 122 B.C.. They began to climb up the political social status.

3. What was the relationship between
Patricians
the “Games”
and the plebian mob?
The “Games” were events that were played by the plebeians. Patricians would make money from them fighting and word watch them fight.

4. How did Rome’s Bread and Circuses affect:
Roman society and culture?
Roman government?
Roman economics?
Were these effects POSITIVE or NEGATIVE? WHY?
Rome’s Bread and Circuses gave the society entertainment and pleasure. The government resolved more issues conflicts etc. It was positive because Roman economics gave plebians more privileges.

5. Many historians have compared America to Rome for many reasons, including our global military presence, form of government to even our former usage of slaves. However, one of the biggest could be comparing Bread and Circuses. Does the modern United States have Bread and Circuses like the ancient Romans? Why or why not?
Yes we do it includes food stamps for “plebians” the middle class and expensive events like trials for an underground subway.

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Felemina Amin
10/13/2019 11:57:24 am

1. Panem et Circenses is a strategy the government used to keep peace in the empire by giving out free food and entertainment.

2. It began when plebeians were starting riots in 100 AD. The riots got out of control that the government gave the plebeians food, public baths, entertainment and other things so they would be happy and stop the riots.

3. The patricians owned so much land and had lots of money that the plebeians couldn’t get. The plebeians were mad about jobs,money and food they weren’t getting so they started riots. The wealth gap was a major problem for the two classes but they both enjoyed the games being held at the Colosseum.

4. The Roman citizens were enjoying the bread and circuses they were getting and demanded more so government taxed and collected money in order to provide for the bread and circuses.
The government didn’t care about the needs of the citizens wanted as long as they didn’t worry about politics or the economy. But this affected the Rome negatively because the economy was crashing. Citizens were getting angry that they were being taxed so much money. Patricians were losing their wealth and plebeians weren’t getting the free things they wanted. Not enough money could support the military and the government was losing their power.

5. Modern United States does have bread and circuses just like the Romans did. Today many Americans love entertainment like shows, movies or music for their enjoyment. Romans enjoy gladiator fights, chariot races, performing arts and other things. The gladiators were popular by the Romans because of the violence and brutal fights. Gladiators are similar to football since it’s also brutal and beloved by many Americans. Romans also enjoyed the free food their government was giving. Foods from some markets and fast food restaurants are cheap for many people to afford.

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Christina Martinez
10/13/2019 11:58:29 am

* 1. What were Panem et Circensus?
1.Panem et Circensus was also known as bread and circuses. It included sustenance and entertainment provided by government to appease public discontent.

* 2. When, and more importantly WHY, did the Bread and Circuses begin?
Bread and circuses began in 122 BC. It began because the romans wanted a program to prevent civil unrest within the late empire. Roman leaders believed that if these two needs we’re met (food and entertainment) then the poor would be less likely to notice,complain,or revolt against the empire.
* 3. What was the relationship between
* Patricians
* the “Games”
* and the plebian mob?
The relationship between the patricians,the “Games”, and the plebeian mob is that The “Games” were events that were played by the plebeians. Patricians would make money from them fighting and word watch them fight.

* 4. How did Rome’s Bread and Circuses affect:
* Roman society and culture?
* Roman government?
* Roman economics?
* Were these effects POSITIVE or NEGATIVE? WHY?
Rome’s Bread and Circuses affected the Roman society and culture by being able to keep the most largest group of poor people entertained because they were a major threat to their empire. Rome’s Bread and Circuses affected the Roman government by having to pass new laws for the poor people so that they are able to get cheap food and entertainment for the most effective way to rise power. Rome’s economics were affected by the Bread and Circuses because the Romans got to stay wealthy and keep their empire alive by giving cheap food and entertainment to the poor Who were affecting their empire. These effects were both positive and negative because the Romans had to pass laws that made a impact on the other Romans besides the poor, but It was also positive because The Romans kept their empire strong and pleasurable.

* 5. Many historians have compared America to Rome for many reasons, including our global military presence, form of government to even our former usage of slaves. However, one of the biggest could be comparing Bread and Circuses. Does the modern United States have Bread and Circuses like the ancient Romans? Why or why not?
Yes, modern United States does have bread and circuses like the ancient Romans. I say this because it is cheap, easy, and it results in applause and adulation, and works long enough for those currently in power not to have to deal with more difficult, long-term solutions. Also bread (food) is as necessary to sustain life today as it was then. Entertainment, the Coliseum, Nextflix, YouTube and more,adds a lot to the quality of life – and to one’s ability to be productive if indulged in a disciplined way.

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Christina Martinez
10/13/2019 11:58:54 am

* 1. What were Panem et Circensus?
1.Panem et Circensus was also known as bread and circuses. It included sustenance and entertainment provided by government to appease public discontent.

* 2. When, and more importantly WHY, did the Bread and Circuses begin?
Bread and circuses began in 122 BC. It began because the romans wanted a program to prevent civil unrest within the late empire. Roman leaders believed that if these two needs we’re met (food and entertainment) then the poor would be less likely to notice,complain,or revolt against the empire.
* 3. What was the relationship between
* Patricians
* the “Games”
* and the plebian mob?
The relationship between the patricians,the “Games”, and the plebeian mob is that The “Games” were events that were played by the plebeians. Patricians would make money from them fighting and word watch them fight.

* 4. How did Rome’s Bread and Circuses affect:
* Roman society and culture?
* Roman government?
* Roman economics?
* Were these effects POSITIVE or NEGATIVE? WHY?
Rome’s Bread and Circuses affected the Roman society and culture by being able to keep the most largest group of poor people entertained because they were a major threat to their empire. Rome’s Bread and Circuses affected the Roman government by having to pass new laws for the poor people so that they are able to get cheap food and entertainment for the most effective way to rise power. Rome’s economics were affected by the Bread and Circuses because the Romans got to stay wealthy and keep their empire alive by giving cheap food and entertainment to the poor Who were affecting their empire. These effects were both positive and negative because the Romans had to pass laws that made a impact on the other Romans besides the poor, but It was also positive because The Romans kept their empire strong and pleasurable.

* 5. Many historians have compared America to Rome for many reasons, including our global military presence, form of government to even our former usage of slaves. However, one of the biggest could be comparing Bread and Circuses. Does the modern United States have Bread and Circuses like the ancient Romans? Why or why not?
Yes, modern United States does have bread and circuses like the ancient Romans. I say this because it is cheap, easy, and it results in applause and adulation, and works long enough for those currently in power not to have to deal with more difficult, long-term solutions. Also bread (food) is as necessary to sustain life today as it was then. Entertainment, the Coliseum, Nextflix, YouTube and more,adds a lot to the quality of life – and to one’s ability to be productive if indulged in a disciplined way.

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Kid
10/13/2019 11:58:56 am

1) Panem et Circenses was a juvenal that coined the mechanism of influential power of the Roman mass, it was a sustenance and entertainment provided by the Roman government to appease public discontent. Panem et Circenses means bread and circuses.

2) Panem et Circenses began at 122 B.C and these organization of games were important because it was a way for people of low social classes move up or climb up the ladder of political popularity and higher social class which would benefit their future by getting an important position in the government of Rome.

3) The relationship between the Roman society and the games is that the patricians watched the games and the plebians participated in the game if they did not watch it and the games were where all the citizens of the Roman empire came together, it was where lower class people can move up social classes by talking to the patricians.

4) Bread and Circuses affected Roman society because laws were passed so plebians can vote and Roman culture was affected by it because when the citizens started to know that it was destroying the citizens, they would rely on these games and the government. Because of this the Roman government gained more power and controller the people. The citizens of the Roman empire were given things from the government and entertainment which helped the Roman empire.






5) Yes I do think modern United States has Bread and Circuses like the Roman empire did but it is in a much less violent way without any killing involved. I think that because America has sport games and people pay money to watch the two teams or contestants battle each other like they are enemies, they are basically watching each other fight like the gladiators in the Roman bread and circuses but without killing each other. I also think sport games are ways of settling a feud in a more civilized way.

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Austynn Holder
10/13/2019 11:59:32 am

1. Panem et Circenses was the empire giving out pleasures such as food and games to the population. They were able to eat a lot of food and had public baths along with gladiators and chariot races.

2. The empire created this to keep the population quiet and peaceful while also letting them voice themselves. Bread and circuses began in the late first and early second century AD when the population were starting riots in the streets.

3. While the patricians were the upper, wealthy class and had many luxuries, the plebeians were very poor and weren’t happy. This lower class ended up starting fights in the streets. However, the games of the chariot races, gladiators, etc. brought them together to enjoy these events and distract them from the riots in the streets.

4. Because of these games, the Romans no longer cared about their civic duties which was a negative effect. The society also became more dependent on their leaders because of everything the government was giving them. Because of this, it was easier for the government to control the population.

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Jazmine M.
10/13/2019 11:59:50 am

Panem te Circensus, meaning “bread and circuses”, was a political strategy. This formula offered a variety of pleasures including; food, public baths, gladiators, exotic animals, chariot races, sports competitions, and theatre representation.

They began at the rise of 122 B.C. Panem te Circensus began to keep the population peaceful and still giving them the opportunity to voice themselves. The Roman historian Fronto said, “The Roman people is absorbed by two things above all others, it’s food supplied and it shows”. By giving the people what they want it would prevent them from rioting and leaders were able to rule however they wanted.

The organization of games was an occasion to climb up the ladder of political popularity. The game consisted of hundreds of Gladiators fighting each other. The majority of Gladiators were prisoners of war and slaves that were obligated to fight in order to survive. On the other hand, autocrats only interest were in becoming rich with prizes.

Rome’s Bread and Circuses had a negative affect. People had gradually relinquished their sovereignty to government administrators to whom they had granted absolute power in return for food and entertainment. People were demoralized their horizons with limited by bread and circuses had destroyed the spirit while paying lip service to the letter of their once hallowed traditions. People sold their right as free men for full bellies and excitement of the games which would serve to distract them from the other human hungers which bread and circuses could never appease.

The Modern United States does have Bread and Circuses like the ancient Romans. Both distract people from problems going on through entertainment. Today we have technology, celebrations, sports, etc. People give more interest to these entertainments. For example, we have many sports organizations including; the NFL, NBA, NHL, etc. They provided entertainment to millions of people. People prefer to watch these games than be invested in political events.

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Ezekiel Anthony
10/13/2019 12:00:38 pm

1. Bread and circuses
2. It started to have peace and entertainment

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Jimena Wilson
10/13/2019 12:00:50 pm

What was panem et circensus?
-panem et circensus means bread and circuses, it was a strategy they used to entertain people while they were being entertained and to give these people a voice.

-this began in 122 B.C, it was made to keep the population peaceful

-patricians would be promoted by the emperor
-the games offered a variety of pleasures and it was efficient
-most plebeians were bakers so they would bake the bread

-this affected the Rome society and culture by

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Erika Maqueda
10/13/2019 12:04:28 pm

1. The panem et circenses which translate to “bread and games” was used for pleasures such as food, exotic animals, sports competitions and more.
2. The bread and circuses began because it was used to keep the population peaceful. At the same time give them a voice for the performances.
3. The relationship between the patricians and the plebian mob was that the plebians were mostly the gladiators in the games. They were either prisoners from war or slaves. They were obligated to fight to survive. While the patricians weren’t really that involved in the games.
4. The Roman’s bread and circuses affected the romans society in positive and negative ways. It was positive because it gave the people a place to be entertained plus it gave the government more popularity from the performances. It was also negative because a lot of people especially the plebians were killed during the games plus the animals that did survive were cruelly killed afterwards. The games were too violet at times.
5. Yes the U.S has bread and circuses like the ancient Romans. This is why because people still like a good show to watch. It might not be as violently as it was back then but people still like to enjoy watching something for their own entertainment.

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Victoria Gonzales
10/13/2019 12:18:50 pm

1. Panem et Circensus is bread and circuses also known as entertainment.

2. The bread and circuses began in 122 B.C, and they began to prevent a civil unrest against the government. The government thought if they gave them food and entertainment, then they would be happy.

3. The relationship between patricans, the games, and the plebian mob where a conflict kind of relationship and the games was kind of the way to distract how they really felt. The patricans used the games to distract the plebians but that can only do so much and the plebians are not that dumb. The relationship kind of a peace treaty to everything.

4. The bread and circuses effect the roman society and culture by bringing violence and disorder upon people and there beliefs. This also has a play on the government because they had to find a lot of ways to entertain and keep order around for they can be higher up. The roman economics got worse because they started to care more about keeping people entertained and not to take down the government. They are all negative because there where a lot of things hidden from everyone and there were a lot of deaths.

5. The modern United States does how the bread circuses like the Romans did because right now modern U.S. has a big gap between rich and poor, just like the Romans. The number of homeless people have gone up and jobs keep getting harder to get. One way to get Americans with the same technique is lottery and jackpots with big wins. Having people in the military also helps the government with having protection and having to worry about more people having no job. People don't want low class jobs but that's what it has to come to. They keep us detracted my movies and shows or the news to face away our problems and that most of us won't fight back if they got what they need to survive.

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William McMonigle
10/13/2019 12:23:03 pm

Panem et Circensus is a political figure that gains popularity not from policies or their accomplishments, but from diverting the attention through things such as entertainment or parties. The Roman Empire transferred to bread and circuses because when they had transitioned to a empire they didn't want people to be revolting against them. The relationship of the Roman bread and circuses and the plebians was that they were all relieved and happy so they didn't have a problem with the people in charge. The patricians felt the same because they didn't have to worry about revolts. The bread and circuses improved culture and fueled all the things and ideas we have now a days about the ancient Romans, such as gladiators and chariot races. As for society I'm sure 24/7 parties can't help your society grow but it wasn't revolting so it wasn't completely negative. The bread and circuses weren't the best for the government at least from an outside perspective because they could do what ever they wanted to because the working class doesn't care. The government most likely had a field day though because there wasn't any thing they had to worry about as far as revolting went. The affects on the economy was not the best but not terrible because their whole working class was partying while slaves did their jobs. I think that in total it was neither positive or negative because it kept peace but it also stopped them from growing. I think to some extent that America has bread and circuses because there is so many things to distract us from the government but at the same time we have the power to vote and pay attention to what goes on with the government.

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John Coker p.3
10/13/2019 12:23:58 pm


Panem et circensus was also a name for bread and circensus. This name is describes and used for entertainment purposes. Panem was made so that poor wouldn’t complain and rebel, they believed that if food and entertainment standards were met it wouldn’t happen. Patricians owned land and could be generals on armies. Plebeians worked and couldn’t write, but the games it brought poor and higher classes in one place. Rome’s bread & circuses affected the roman government by gaining more power & control because they’re providing food & entertainment to the population to keep the lower classes from rebelling, and to keep peace. This changed them culturally because it was desired for people to fight in the colosseum for entertainment and to show a story, for example one team would be Spartans and the other team would be Persia. I would say sports would be a great comparison to bread and circensus because two teams are competing against eachother for victory. A difference is that they don’t kill eachother, they just earn more sponsors and fans. We also do it for money because we need money to survive and the people who were in bread and circensus fought to survive.


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Claire Butts
10/13/2019 12:24:22 pm

1.)It's a mechanism of influential power over the Roman mass. This formula offered a variety of pleasures such as: the distribution of food, public baths, gladiators, exotic animals, chariot races, sports competition, and theater representation. It was an efficient instrument in the hands of the Emperors to keep the population happy, and giving them the opportunity to voice themselves in these places of performance.
2.) The rise of it started in 122 B.C. It reserved stands for respected spectators were constructed around the plazza of the Roman Fourm.
3.) Mainly the Partitions watched games while the Plebeians watched/participated.
4.) In the Roman society certain laws were passed to allow plebeians to vote. The Roman culture offered this when they realized people wanted a distraction. They would soon become dependent on these games and the government. The Roman government gained more power and control because of this.
5.) The modern United States does have Bread and Circuses like the Roman’s did. In today's day in age people are entertained by what’s happening on social media and television. By doing this we are giving out money and making these influential people even more influential and powerful than they already are. Much like how the Roman people gave money for the entertainment organized by political people making them richer and themselves poorer. The Roman public became very dependent on governmental means of sustaining life just as a population of America depends on welfare.

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Melisa Sandoval
10/13/2019 12:27:11 pm

1.) Panem et circenses was known as bread and circuses. It was a political strategy. They distributed food, baths, gladiators, animals, chariot races, etc.

2.) It began in 122 b.c because they wanted to gain more political popularity.

3.) Even though patricians and plebeians were from different class, the games brought everyone together and enjoyed their time together.

4.) Romans were brought together by its food and shows. The shows and food were the only thing that they would be happy and glad to be together. They gave a lot of power to the government in return for food and entertainment. This lead to the government getting lots of benefits and having one of the “best jobs”. In some of the games, for example the Trajan, walked away with 10,000,000 kilos of gold. People would earn a lot of money just in a game.

5.) In America we kind of do have a form of bread and circuses. We have all sorts of entertainment like football stadiums, movie theaters, etc. This keeps the population stable and peaceful. The government provides us with all of this and protection and in return we give them more power by voting and obeying laws. We don’t have shows were we watching innocent people killing each other for entertainment, but we have our own entertainment.


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Karem Sherlyn Alondra Perez Ortiz
10/13/2019 12:29:41 pm

Panem et Circenses is a system that influenced the Rome Empire and contributed in leading Rome into its fall. Panem et Circensus, bread and circuses, is attributed to Juvenal, a poet that describes whereby the system influenced the Roman mass. This system consisted in organizing entertainments, such as the gladiator fights, chariots races, exotic animals, and other types of shows, to recollect money and appease the population with the shows and food given. Gatherings began at 122 B.C, and it continued by encouraging the amount of fabricated buildings named amphitheaters that its dedicated purpose was to Panem et Circenses, the system. It began to provide the emperors or the government whereby it was a monarchy, full authority by utilizing the system to deceive people from its current problems, and gain the credit for its positive effects and disregarding the comebacks of it cluttering their defeat. Patricians, the wealthier people, received all the advantages from this system by benefiting from the high taxes, used to feed the population, and it allowed them to climb up the government ladder easier, and influence the rest with the blandishments, the games. The plebians were poor and didn´t benefit at all, they lost their pride by submitting into the system, this made them to become empty desiring only what the system provided, food and shows, an empty shell from once the noble republic. The few plebians that realize became a mob, that was also influenced by the system by being appeased by the violent shows. The system influenced the Rome empire in social ways by making the people into marionettes who had forgotten their national pride and became numb to the problems. The Roman culture created festivals and bread and circuses were extremely common that it became a roman recreation and encourage theaters to be shown. The government, on the other hand, became corrupted by using the system to achieve more and live in luxury, not looking out for the well-being of the population, which most were plebians. The Roman economy includes the high taxes the citizens had to pay, which most were unable to, such as the farmers, and therefore they became weak, unable to produce a strong military or even produce food. All the effects are negative, the system fooled the mortals and provoke them to be focus on the entertainements and food supplies ignoring the problems while producing more and utterly losing Roman pride, and detaining newer innovations. The only positive effect would be the encouragement in theater-like entertainment, but they were declining already, and teasing the fall. Yes, we do have ancient Rome´s Panem et Circenses, we have stadiums that are assigned for sports, and people fund for it, we also have programs to provide jobs and the numbers of homeless people increase. We continue to kill despite the media not pronouncing it, and our military is lacking, and we extract goods from other places. We are not that far, we rely on others to sustain a living. Theodore Mommsen even stated that we have repeated the same mistakes.

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Hannah Biggs
10/13/2019 02:04:32 pm

1. Panem and Circensus was a formula for the well-being of the population, such as providing food, public baths, entertainment, etc.
2. The Bread and Circuses began because Emperors wanted to keep the population peaceful, and to have influence and power over the Roman people. It began around 122 B.C. by a man named Juvenal.
3. Patricians and political leaders wanted to basically control the poor. Rather than leading the masses, they chose instead to appease the plebeian mob. And to do that, they just gave them food and entertainment, AKA. the “games”. Bloodshed, fighting, killing animals, all for entertainment. And it actually worked, kinda.
4. Well Juvenal started Panem et Circensus to gain political power. He felt he could control the lower class if he filled their bellies and gave them entertainment. Roman society was revolved around war, so basically they took the war to the people for entertainment. Roman leaders believed that the poor would be less likely to notice, complain, or revolt against the empire if they did this.
5. Definitely yes. We have many forms of Panem and Circensus today. For example, the Olympic Games. A bunch of sports competitions for awards and the entertainment of us humans, except, uh, no death of course. We don’t kill people for entertainment. There is many other examples as well, and we still have theatre today.

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Jaqueline Pacheco
10/13/2019 02:06:29 pm

1. Bread and circuses
2. Bread and circuses began so that they can calm mobs, and so they can't rebel against the government
3. The patricians are the ones who would enjoy the shows while the plebeians had to entertain the patricians and some even gained freedom. The "games" were mostly for amusement. The relationship they all had is that they all gained something from it.
4. Bread and circuses affected society and culture because the society got distracted and forgot about their own religion/culture. It affected the Roman government because they had to sustain and help like for example the poor. And the economics because they were supplied and forgot. An example is that inventions began to dry up because they thought they wouldnt make a profit.
5. Modern United states does have Bread and Circuses like ancient Rome because we still have theaters, concert, sport events,etc... that keep people entertained. And the people behind it all gain money from it .

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damaris huizar
10/13/2019 02:11:21 pm

1. panem et circensus was a political strategy. it was an efficient instrument in the hands of the emperors to keep the population peaceful, while also giving them the opportunity to voice themselves in these places of performance.
2. the bread & circuses begin so the government can gain more power, & to keep the population peaceful so they won’t revolt against the government. it began in about 122 b.c.
3. the patricians were the higher class while the plebeians were the lower class. but , the games brought both together. both watched & enjoyed the games & the games were a strategy to keep the poor happy enough so they wouldn’t riot.
4. rome’s bread & circuses affected the roman government by them using this strategy to gain more power & control because they’re providing food & entertainment to the population to keep them peaceful & happy.
5. yes america has resemblances to bread & circuses by also having forms of entertainment or bribery that make/force us feel differently about something or someone without even knowing its part of a strategy. it distracts us from what’s really happening & usually sparks a positive reaction , like the government in rome gaining more likes & power from the population by providing food & entertainment.

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Blanca Padilla
10/13/2019 02:18:52 pm

1) Panem et Circenses was a political strategy, this offered a variety of pleasures like food, public baths, gladiators, exotic animals, chariot races, sports competition and theater representation.
2) The bread and circuses started in 122 B.C to win the favor of common citizens so their political popularity would increase.
3) Patricians would attend gladiators and other games for fun while plebians would do their own activities because they weren't Patricians.
4)The bread and circuses affect Roman Society because Roman citizens adapted to gladiators fights and became a part of their Culture.It affected the government by increasing their political popularity.It affected the Roman Economics because with time the public became more demanding and wanted more gladiators, more animal fights etc. Which cost them more money.
6) In the United States they did not have something similar to Panem et Circenses because they had a different culture then the Romans.

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Sandra
10/13/2019 03:35:56 pm

1.The panem et Circenses or “Bread & games” was a form of entertainment that also provided the public with things such as free bread, public baths, etc.
2. The bread & circuses began around 122 B.C. They began because it was a good way to maintain money, power and to keep the public occupied.
3.Mainly the patricians watched the games and the plebeians participated in the games if not watched.
4.In the Roman society certain laws were passed so the plebeians could vote. The Roman culture was affected by the bread & circuses when people started to realize that it was a destruction of their people and that they would become dependent on these “games” and the government. The Roman government gained more power and control over the people. The people of the Roman society we’re given free things along with a form of entertainment which promoted the Roman Empire as good.

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Jose Bazaldua
10/13/2019 04:07:31 pm

1. Panem et Circensus is a way to entertain the public and gives free bread and much more.
2.I began in 122 BCE and because is good to maintain money and power.
3.The patricians watch the games and the plebeians play the games
4.The effects of Roman bread had an effect more negative than positive because the government gain more power and the control of the people, and in the culture when people notice that they depend on the games and that are their people start to be destroy and the positive affect is on the society that plebeians get the right to vote.
5. Yeah something like not very similar to ancient Rome but something, some examples can be boxing, street fights, cars races, paintball, and more, because some of these can provoke health problems or even death but are safer and more fair than the ancient Rome.

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Sandra
10/13/2019 05:37:56 pm

1.The panem et Circenses or “Bread & games” was a form of entertainment that also provided the public with things such as free bread, public baths, etc.
2. The bread & circuses began around 122 B.C. They began because it was a good way to maintain money, power and to keep the public occupied.
3.Mainly the patricians watched the games and the plebeians participated in the games if not watched.
4.In the Roman society certain laws were passed so the plebeians could vote. The Roman culture was affected by the bread & circuses when people started to realize that it was a destruction of their people and that they would become dependent on these “games” and the government. The Roman government gained more power and control over the people. The people of the Roman society we’re given free things along with a form of entertainment which promoted the Roman Empire as good.

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teyvia avila
10/13/2019 06:55:43 pm

It is a political strategy. It gave out pleasures like food, public baths, and more. It was a way for the emperor to keep the population peaceful.
It began in 122B.C it started so that political figures could keep votes from the poorer citizens.
Patricians were typically the ones running the games. The games consisted of gladiators (which were slaves)fight things such as exotic animals. Plebeians were the ones watching and wanting bigger and better events
The government was rapidly gaining power and the poorer class felt as if they had it good. The economy was relying on the events and people coming and watching. You would see it as negative because the people were blinded to how everything actually was. Also people were being tortured for the pleasure for others.
America is similar in the sense that it uses the same strategies. They provide parks, entertainment and advertising. This can be seen as the same to bread and circuses.

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Ivan Mayorga p.1
10/13/2019 08:07:48 pm

1. Panem et Circenses is a political strategy to distract the civilians with bread and entertainment. The government provided shows, lots of food and etc. to win the people over.
2. Panem et Circenses began in order to prevent civil unrest and to prevent the poor from less likely to complain, notice,or revolt against the empire. Also to win the votes from the new civilians. The Panem et Circenses was introduced in 140 B.C. by Roman Politicians.
3. The relationship between the Patricians, the “games”, and the plebian mob is Plebeians made most of the population,so they needed to be fooled and not riot. The Patricians funded the games and place bets and the “games” hid the destruction of Rome from Plebeians and Patricians.
4.The Rome’s Bread and Circuses affected society and culture because it gave civilians food and entertainment. Also it allowed the civilians to have a part in all the games and performances around them. It affected the government by preventing the civilians from rioting and keeping the citizens distracted from the government. Bread and Circuses affected Roman economics by the government profiting off the entertainment and performances happening. These effects were negative because it lead to their own extinction.
5. Yes modern America has Bread and Circuses like ancient Rome. Examples of Bread and Circuses modern United States use is sporting events like The World Cup, movie theaters and much more. Civilians than take interest in these events and then get distracted from the government and than all the attention from the government is drawn towards the events.

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jamiah
10/13/2019 08:56:00 pm

Panem et Circensus", literally "bread and circuses", was the formula for the well-being of the population, and thus a political strategy. It began to the population peaceful. The relationship between them was they both had some type of power.Panem and circuses became the most effective way to rise to power. By giving out food and enterntainment. This is a positive effect because it help the population become more at peace even if some people died.

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Litzy Gonzalez link
10/13/2019 09:51:05 pm

Panem et Circenses

1.) The Panem et Circenses means “bread and circuses”. It was a political strategy used to entertain the population and to keep everyone at peace. It was also used to give people opportunities to voice themselves in the places of performances.
2.)It began in 122 B.C and games were organized to aid in climbing up in political popularity.
3.) Patricians had a relationship to “The Game” by being the ones who organized them and used them as a political strategy. It helped patricians earn important positions in office. For the plebeian mob, “The Game” entertainer them and they greatly appreciated it. It became an important part of Roman culture.
4.) Bread and Circuses affected Rome’s culture and society because the games became extraordinary, and a lot of time and resources were put into these performances. It affected the government because these performances where used and organized by politicians to gain approval from the population. Bread and Circuses affected economics because the performances were costly, and Trajans, the winners of one of these performances, walked away with 10 million kilos of gold, 20 millions kilos of silver, and 500 thousand slaves.
I don’t believe this was a positive thing by any means, Panem et Circenses was operated to distract the population. Violent and cruel performances were used to distract people from the destruction and corruption of the government.
5.) I think that in modern USA, we do have things that are similar to Panem et Circensus. Things like sports, celebrity scandals, and other forms of media can be used to put people’s attention on unimportant and sometimes wasteful things.

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Benjamin Abrica
10/13/2019 09:58:14 pm

Panem et circenses means bread and circuses which is a way of keeping the people entertained and keeping their focus off the government. The patricians set up these games to keep the plebs from focusing on the government. Roman society was kind of like ours, it had the patricians that have most of the money and the plebs that have little bit are distracted of how poor they are because of bread and circuses. All this was super negative because it caused the fall of Rome. Yes the united states most definitely does have bread and circuses but it’s not as bad as it was back then in Rome. Now that we have technology and other ways of communicating i think that we’re beginning to realize that our government operates the same way.

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Aaron Taylor
10/13/2019 09:59:57 pm

Panem et Circenses is the phrase meaning, “ bread and circuses”. It was the formula for a lot of the population and therefore made a political strategy. It offered the pleasures of the food distribution, public baths, gladiators, exotic of animals, chariot races, sport races, and the representation of the theater. It was essentially the Romes entertainment.

Panem et Circenses first began in 122 B.C. It began to prevent the citizens from rebelling and starting a civil war, so they distracted the rich with entertainment, and gave the poor food, so they would be less likely to rebel against the empire.

The relationship between the patricians was to entertain them. The patricians needed big distraction in order to keep the peace. The games first started before the construction of relative buildings that functioned as the city’s central administration and the forum area was the theater for gladiator combat. The spectors of these games were of the Rick and excluded the poor. As the games professed and with a high public demand the “extraordinary”games were created Caesars adopted son where 10,000 men battled 3,500 wild animals from Africa. The majority of gladiators in these games were prisoners of war and slaves, only few people were in the games willingly for the rewards. Sometimes the games got to violent so innocent people were sent to fight because the gladiators were being killed off to fast. The plebeian mob was treated with food, and they were the people the empire worried about the most, they didn’t want them to start a civil war.

Rome’s society and culture got affected by breads and circuses by the baths giving the Romes a social outlet, this is were you could exchange opinions, ideas, play some game or just pass the time. Romes government had a good control over the Romans due to the bread and circus. With the plebs and the patricians distracted with food and entertainment, they could make sure the empire wasn’t being threatened by a rebellion. They wanted to keep the population peaceful and at the same time giving them opportunities to voice their opinions themselves in the places of performance. The economics were effected by providing jobs and promoting welfare, but there were higher taxes. However there was also a 2 cent currency a year and farmers were even supplied with grain, pork and olive oil, at or below parity prices. A lot of these may seem positive, but it’s all really negative. The government doesn’t care about these people and there well being, the only thing they care about is if everyone is happy. If everyone’s happy then they is no rebel and no chance of the empire being destroyed, other wise they wouldn’t even think twice about the plebes or if the rich are entertained, all that they really care about is their empire.

Yes, modern day American does have bread and circuses. For example how we have all these news channels giving us entertainment here in American about the Kardashian’s naming one of there kids, “ hot dog” while we could be learning about the fact that the earth is dying. Phones are also a distraction, you can’t go anywhere without seeing someone on a phone,it could rang from them listening to music, calling someone, texting someone or even alittle kid watching a video on YouTube. Eveywhere you go there are distraction from the real world. On t.v you can see a commercial about water and think nothing of it, but that company actually just bought all the fresh water from a poor town in Africa and is now charging these poor people a lot of money for something they need. Or when the Amazon Rainforest was burning for three days until someone said something. The government doesn’t want us to see the worlds problems for what they are because they profit off of it and want to control our actions. Bread and circuses is a thing America and if people think otherwise they are blinded by the government to.







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Tanner Hafen
10/13/2019 10:07:41 pm

1) Panem et Circensus were when the government would set up gladiator fights or chariot races and other exciting events for the public to watch. They would also have bread to feed the people while they were at the games.
2) Bread and circuses started in the second century. They started because the government needed to pacify the mobs that were looking for food. The government also needed to avert the eyes of the people from what they were becoming when they never wanted to stray from a republic.
3) Patricians would bet on the games. the teams were also a sort of gang. If you supported "greens" then you were an enemy to someone who supported "whites". The plebian mobs were pacified because their main goal was to get food and food was supplied at the games.
4) Romans were consumed by the games and didn't care about anything else. Their culture became the games. The government put the games in place to distract the people from what was happening in Rome as it was changing from a republic to an empire. A lot of money was being gambled and bets were being placed by the patricians on the outcome of the games. I think these effects are negative because the people were solely focused on bread and circuses and they didn't have their own lives. Their lives were just a distraction and that way of life is meaningless.
5) The modern United States does have bread and circuses like the ancient Romans. We have television and phones which keep us busy and distracted from what's going on around us and we have welfare programs that keep people from forming the equivalent to plebian mobs.

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Bermariz Dolores Alvarenga
10/13/2019 11:23:38 pm

1. The formula for the well being of population and political strategy. It offered distribution of food,public baths,gladiators etc.

2. if food and entertainment the poor would be less likely to notice, complain, or revolt against the empire

3.The patricians were patrons; they entertained a group of their loyal followers every morning, handed out favors and jobs, and so on.

The organization of games was an occasion to climb up the ladder of political popularity.

Emperor Augustus had an eye on the plebeian mob. So he kept them well fed and happy so they wouldn't riot against him, like bribery.

4. Caesar organized the game to borrow lots of money which then turn into a investment then into a propaganda in a way. Later on the public demand more of the games.

Roman government wanted to keep the idle masses entertained because they knew that a large group of poor people was a major threat to their empire.


They did business like decorating with Nobel metals for the games. Then later making businesses and stores. Another was that some gladiators if they were to win they would walk away with 10,000,000 kilos of gold,20 millions kilos of sliver, 500,000 slaves.


They were positive this majorly help romans control the mod by keeping them happy with food and entertainment.

5. I believe that America does have a bread and circuses. We live around it example like when we vote on our president. They gives a variety of things we want in order for us to pick them. Other would like how you're parents would tell you in order to play your games you would have to do the chores right. Bribery. Trading also is part of this too,so in a way yeah bread and circuses did evolved into America which just don't see in that manner. Yet.

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Veronica Rodriguez
10/13/2019 11:35:01 pm


1. Panem et circenses was a way the government provided entertainment to appease the public, in times of Rome.
2. It began in 122 B.C, and began in order to maintain peace, giving the poor food and entertainment. It was a way the government kept the vote of poor citizens, as well as a way many could get a rise in power.
3. The patricians would benefit from the breads and circuses. Their business was at their best. The plebeians had it good as well. Some of the farmers would produce the goods given to the public during these entertainments, such as grain and olive oil. They all somehow would benefit from the games.
4. Overall bread and circuses would positively affect Rome’s economics, government, society and culture. The public would give in to rise of taxes, improving the economics, as well as providing jobs. The poorer class would give their vote to the government, improving that as well. They would keep the society entertained and oblivious to what was really going on, so that would be improving the society since they would have entertainment and were being fed, both rich and poor.
5. The modern United States does sort of have its own modern bread and circuses to this day. There must be many crazy things happening in this world, in which the public is distracted from, using entertainment such as television and movies. For example, the government keeps a close eye on every individual, giving zero privacy ultimately, but we don’t seem to be too bothered or shocked by it, since we are distracted by this fact. There are many examples that resemble bread and circuses in this time, to distract the public from reality.

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Brenda Luna
10/13/2019 11:42:29 pm

1. The Panem et Circensus was a way to keep people of Rome entertained and happy, it also offered many pleasure: public baths, gladiators, exotic animals, chariot races, sport competition and theater representation.
2. In 140 B.C. Bread and Circuses began, times were tough and rulers decided to brib and distract people with food and entertainment, by doing this the ruler showed loyalty and pacified the people.
3. The Patricians could use the "Games" to become popular with people and also just to enjoy, while the emperors believed the "Games" could be used so that the Plebian mob would be less likely to notice, complain, or revolt against the empire.
4. Bread and Circuses affect the Roman culture by making the people feel like the government was showing loyalty and by making the people happy. The goverment was also happy that the plebians were distracted by the games that they weren't complaining and that they were winning the votes of the citizens. Citizens were making money by doing public works for the bread and circuses and the farmers supplied the food that was given at the games.
5. The United States has bread and circuses in a way similar to Rome, the goverment in the United States provided people who can't work with a safety net, which ensures generations of voters. As for the "Circus" we watch politices as entertainment and we choose a side that we believe in.

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Jade Armstrong
10/13/2019 11:46:25 pm

Panel et circenses were gatherings made for the public to enjoy the entertainment of gladiators, animal fights, public baths and free grain to help pacify the masses and them help forget about their problems. Panem et circenses started at the rise of 122 BC and were made to keep the people happy and entertained without actually fixing their problems and was a political strategy for the government to keep the people in check. Patricians were the rich upperclass of Rome who at one point even had the ability to reserve spots To watch the shows but this power was later diminished. Plebeians were everyone who wasn’t in the upperclass and would use the Games as a way to relax and get food after a long day of work. As the wealth gap grew between the plebeians and the patricians the games became not enough to sustain the plebeians and they turned into a mob. Romans society enjoyed the bathhouses and used them not only for hygiene but also for spreading information and gossip. A huge part of Rome that is often the first thing to come to a persons mind when thinking of Rome is their gladiators and exotic animal fights that entertained the public. Rome’s government uses the panem et circenses as a political strategy keeping the people entertained and fed just enough to try and distract them from their problems which eventually led to their downfall. Rome’s economy spent money on large exotic animals solely to have them battle each other to the death though they also gave away free grain to feed the people, eventually the wealth gap grew to big and chaos ensued in the form of the plebeians uprising. The panem et circenses though has good and bad qualities it did lead to the downfall of Rome. The bread helped slightly to keep the starving fed and the public baths helped keep plagues from being spread but the expensive shows and battles more of pacified the masses instead of actually fixing their problems. This became more clear to the plebians as the wealth grew and the panem et circenses couldn’t keep them fed and entertained anymore. Which lead straight to the plebeians uprising. America has its own forms of panem et circenses. Such as mass amounts of entertainment (tv, video games, sports etc) and extremely cheap but very bad for you junk food. Which is used to keep the masses entertained enough to keep them from uprising without actually fixing their problems.

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jaime vega
10/13/2019 11:53:19 pm

1. panem et circensus was a juvenal that coined its system which was a mechanism of influencal power of the roman mass. panem et circensus which is also referred as “bread and circuses” it was the theorem for the great or good of the population and was also a political strategy. This code offered a variety of entertainment like: the delivery of food, public baths, gladiators, exotic animals, chariot races, sports/any competition, and performing arts. It was an effective mechanism of the emperors to keep the population peaceful and at the same time giving them the opportunity to do greater things for themselves.
2. bread and circuses began around 122 BC. why it began because it was to keep the people mostly the poor to be fed and entertained. the sports or races were to bring everyone to have a peaceful day and enjoy people getting killed. why it was mostly made for the poor so they would less likely to notice, complain and revolt against the empire.
3. what the relationship between patricians was they were the upper class so they would have the better viewing because they were rich and the rich got the best of everything. plebeians were the middle class so they wouldn’t get much special treatment like the patricians. the games was the main part of the entertainment that’s where all of the killing and races/competition would go down.
4. how it affect the roman society was it brought rich to poor to come along as one and watch other people fight for there life and just to have fun. it brought everyone to be peaceful and just to relax in a way. how it affected there culture was it grew and grew to something larger to the point were it was just normal for those who heard about it. so more and more people would come which would lead into how it effected there government. they spent all of their money for the coliseum and other things to keep their government “in place” but deep down their government was poor. for their economics it was a really good thing because for this it become the most effective thing to gain power, it also helped keep the poor citizens votes so that’s why they invented this. these affects would be both positive and negative, positive in a way to keep not only the rich happy and satisfied but an intelligent way to keep the poor happy and brainwashed to keep there eyes away from all the bad for the roman empire to seem good. negative in way that the poor were so blind for the fact that the romans were using them for there vote and power to grow there empire. on top of that they would take slaves innocent people into the coliseum for no reason to make them fight and get them killed for people entertainment.
5. i would say there are some things that are comparable to bread and circuses of ancient roman like sports today there are very still relevant but excluding all of the killing/violence and all bad things, sports are still for people to be entertained it’s for everyone. some other things that can be comparable is there republic and how our government was based on their republic system.

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Danna Chavez
10/13/2019 11:55:21 pm

The political system created by Juvenal "Panem et circensus", which means "bread and circuses", was created for the good of society as it offered different ways to satisfy people as well as food, public baths, gladiators, animals exotic, chariot races, sports competition and theater performances. Everything was created to keep society satisfied by its Emperors and at the same time they were given the right to be heard and expressed in these types of activities, meaning that everyone had power and good sources.
The plebeians and the patricians had the right to win the positive of this law, since the games only occupied gladiators who were war prisons or slaves, from there on these two types of social class kept their image intact and only received good things by the government. Therefore, for them that life had been the best they had in centuries, they had nothing to complain about, because the government had taken "conscience" and decided to maintain a good economy and good security for these two types of social class by their Emperors to keep them satisfied. Farmers were satisfied too, because they could get grain, pork and olive oil at or above parity prices, for the government's doles.
This law affected the society of Rome in a positive way only for those who were not part of lost wars, who were part of the prison or who were slaves. From then on, everyone benefited and the only thing that mattered to them was to keep getting rich. This law was considered part of the Roman religion, in which it said that the devil was not part of the bread and the circuses, but because of society and the need to sell their rights as free human beings so as not to have the temptations of the other human.
This law helped increase the economy of the entire Roman Empire, it was one of the ways in which Rome became powerful. Those who were rich became richer and those of the middle class were also affected in a positive way, except for all those who had to be part of the fights between humans against humans, or in other cases the use of exotic animals. Although there was also the theater or other activities that were part of this law, the most used were the fights, so in each city that was part of this Empire contained a colosseum, but the largest was the one that was located in Rome. This law has its positive and negative sides, on the one hand it helped increase the economy and the satisfaction of its society, but, many innocent people who did not deserve to die just like animals were mockery or distraction for others. In the case of Caligula, where people who did not deserve to be part of this cruelty were sacrificed because they did not have enough "gladiators" it was a work against their law. In itself, this law is considered inhuman when it comes to fights, but it also gave good results such as public baths that helped reduce disease, theaters that showed Roman culture, the distribution of food to the whole society and other sports that were considered part of the law.
America has been compared to Roman law that existed years ago for several reasons, one of them is because in the two forms of government the upper class is more benefited, while the poor become poorer. The increase in taxes is one of the reasons for these causes. Although slaves are not available or that type is violent games, we are part of the olympic games and other physical activities that satisfy the human being, food aid is also considered as an option and the need of President Donald Trump to want overcome its territorial boundaries with other countries, just as Rome did when it became an empire.

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Stephanie Perrone
10/14/2019 03:29:44 am

1. Panem et circenses means bread and circuses. Bread and circuses was the government's way of distracting the public with entertainment and moving eyes away from the government and anything they were doing.
2. Bread and circuses began in 133 B.C.E and was created to distract the public. If the public was too busy feasting and watching gladiator fights than they couldn't riot over the corrupted government they were living under.
3. The games brought together all types of people including Patricians (higher class) and Plebeians (lower class). Both watched and enjoyed the games without knowing the games were a strategy to keep the lower class from rioting.
4. Rome's bread and circuses affected Rome society and culture by putting an end to the riots of the lower class. The lower class could no longer fend for themselves if they had no idea what was going on. Rome's government was now granted the ability to become a corrupted one. They could do what they pleased, when they pleased and nobody could stop them or be a pain by rioting. Rome's economy most certainly became stronger and bigger. With the lower class spending what little money they had the poor became poorer and the rich got richer.
5. America does has their own small versions of bread and circuses. Alcohol, gambling, drugs, and betting are all subtle bread and circuses that are so small the public dosen't even notice. I think the biggest bread and circuses is elections, especially presidential elections. You take 2 opposing sides, give them an iffy representative, and have them talk their way to the victory. It makes the public think that whoever wins will have the power to change what they want, whenever they want when that is just not the case. The elected winner has to go through hundreds of people on both sides to ever get anything changed and that's what majority of the public dosen't seem to understand.

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Brenley Nelson
10/14/2019 09:12:50 pm

1. Panem et circensus was a method for keeping peace in the population, by keeping the people pre-occupies with entertainment. It was really just a political plan.
2. Bread and Circuses began at the beginning of 122 B.C. It started to prevent local agitation in the Roman Empire. They thought that if both of the needs were met, being food and enjoyment, that poor people would be less chances that they would oppose the empire.
3. If the patricians fed and entertained the plebeians, there would be no plebeian mobs. They gave the plebeians bread and entertained them with chariot races and gladiators.
4. Bread and Circuses affected Roman society and culture because it was a cause of the Roman Empire collapse, but at the same time helped the romans through their hardships. It also affected the Roman government because the government gave food to the poor and in return the poor didn't complain to the government. It also affected Roman economics because it didn't require money for the poor to eat or watch the games. The patricians didn't have to put in much effort in to keep the poor pleased. I feel like these effects were positive because they are keeping both classes happy and entertained.
5. Modern America does have bread and Circuses like Ancient Rome. They are sports, racing, tv shows, etc. America has Bread and Circuses to substitute for war. Professional football, for example, is very violent, but we still like it. Just like Bread and Circuses helped the Roman classes get along.

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Brenley Nelson
10/14/2019 09:13:20 pm

1. Panem et circensus was a method for keeping peace in the population, by keeping the people pre-occupies with entertainment. It was really just a political plan.
2. Bread and Circuses began at the beginning of 122 B.C. It started to prevent local agitation in the Roman Empire. They thought that if both of the needs were met, being food and enjoyment, that poor people would be less chances that they would oppose the empire.
3. If the patricians fed and entertained the plebeians, there would be no plebeian mobs. They gave the plebeians bread and entertained them with chariot races and gladiators.
4. Bread and Circuses affected Roman society and culture because it was a cause of the Roman Empire collapse, but at the same time helped the romans through their hardships. It also affected the Roman government because the government gave food to the poor and in return the poor didn't complain to the government. It also affected Roman economics because it didn't require money for the poor to eat or watch the games. The patricians didn't have to put in much effort in to keep the poor pleased. I feel like these effects were positive because they are keeping both classes happy and entertained.
5. Modern America does have bread and Circuses like Ancient Rome. They are sports, racing, tv shows, etc. America has Bread and Circuses to substitute for war. Professional football, for example, is very violent, but we still like it. Just like Bread and Circuses helped the Roman classes get along.

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Ariana Perez
10/14/2019 10:02:47 pm

1 Panem et Cirensus was the formula for well being of the population and political Strategies. It offered verity of pleasures such as "distribution of food, public baths, gladiators, exotic animals ,chariot races Ext".The bread and circuses began entertainment and was a main cause for the power to rise.
2.The bread and circuses began in 122 B.c . The Bread and circus began to keep the population peaceful and gave them a chance to give an opportunity to voice themselves in places of performance.
3.The patricians where the people of the upper class who watched the entertainment of the games which where for fighting animals and for the slaves and or prisoners to be able to have the chance of survival.The games where very costly and the money that was collected by takes where form the plebeians who where citizens or Rome who work hard to proved for there families and taxes.Plebians where gibven a chance by the bread and circuses to have a opportunitie to be places in performances even tho they where lower classed.
4. The bread and circus effected the romans society and culture because it caused entertainments and violence to the society by the fightings of gladiators, cause them to be distracted and helped the emperors to rule but also gave them a source of entertainment and gave them a chance to get political power. It effect the roman governments by making them higher rulers that take away taxes and resources for people but also helps them get rid of slaves and juveniles that could have had conflict with the governments. It effected there economics because it gave them a source of free foods and provided jobs and promote general welfare. They are a mixture of both positive and negative effects and thinkings of bread a crises it did help the patricians and plebeians in general Rome itself by new resources and helping them be stable.It was negative because it did cause violence to much entertainment and cause riots between people which effected the society.
5.Moderen Americans do have Bread and circuses like intent Rome because we get the same source of entertainment violence and government help.There are mutliple people who pay takes, farm have jobs and get job prefences from the governments. we have food and we have entertainment for tv shows, game, fights there are multiple.The untied States does have a form of bread and cricenuses.

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Kyra leigh Kaalekahi
10/18/2019 04:59:39 pm

Panem et Circensus or better known as Bread and Circuses is a political strategy for the people. This was all created around 122 B.C and the sole purpose of creating this was to keep the population under control while letting the people voice their own opinions. The relationship between the Plebians, the games, and the Patricians was that the Plebeians were the ones being distracted so they don't get caught up in the poverty, so the games took their minds away. It was the government who wanted to keep everyone happy because they wanted to distract everyone from how poor their system is. The Patricians on the other hand, benefitted by allowing themselves to become more rich, it was a gain for them to achieve money from the games.
The events of Bread and Circuses affected Roman culture and Society by bringing everybody together; it was an example of peace within the community, even though it was a way to make sure the population wasn't over crowded. Government wise, Bread and Circuses provided a more stable control over the population. The government also contributed the plebians with food and patricians with a grand entertainment for free! The topic of Bread and Circuses affected the economic plains of Rome by making the rich richer and the poor poorer. This statement came to a whim to where they stopped applying themselves to the more important instructions and made the economic value die out. This was a negative effect because it made Rome an encased society to which they destroyed themselves because they stopped focusing on what was important and that was the idea of Rome being a great society. They were clueless to what they were doing to themselves.
Comparing Rome to America is like comparing a mirror to a broken mirror. They're the same reflected, but as individuals they're different. The United States, does have Bread and Circuses, especially in modern day society. Some of Americas Bread and Circuses is the use of T.V shows which shows the likeness of war to see who's on top, we include races in school to see who's the fastest, and in the adult world we compete for who's the dominant social scholar. We see Bread and Circuses all around, we just have become so used to it, that its not that big of a deal anymore.

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David Avram
10/27/2019 09:27:03 pm

1. Panem et Circensus was what the government used in order to keep peace between the people and lessen the chances of the citizens revolting against the government. It gave the poor people free food (bread) and entertainment. It was mainly developed in order to keep peoples eyes away from what really was occurring in the government.
2. Bread and Circuses began around 122 B.C, and were meant to lessen the chances of poor people/plebians revolting against the government and to keep occupied so no one knew what was really happening in the roman government.
3. The patricians, in order for there to be no plebian mobs, gave the plebs the "games" and food.
4. Bread and Circuses were marked into the culture , and became part of the "Roman Culture". The lower classes stopped rioting over unfairness, because the patrician class would give them their Bread and Circuses. It kept a peace between the patricians and plebians. It also allowed the economy to rise, while the poor got poorer, and the rich got richer.
5. Modern America does have Bread and Circuses similar to old Rome. Our Bread and Circuses are our sports that we see on tv. Football, hockey, wrestling, boxing, can be similar to barbarians because we enjoy seeing people slam into each other. At the sport games, they also provide you with food. Our sports that our government has provided, makes people look away from what occurs into the government and not focus on the government. People of all classes watch the sports too.

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