In Rome, the gladiatorial contests were held in the Coliseum, a huge stadium that first opened in 80 C.E. The games involved more participants, occurred more frequently, and became more expensive and more outlandish. Over time, the games became more spectacular and elaborate as emperors felt compelled to outdo the previous year’s competitons. The emperor hoped to distract the poor from their poverty in the hopes that they would not revolt. Paid for by the emperor, the games were used to keep the poor and unemployed entertained and occupied. The Romans continued the practice, holding games roughly 10 to 12 times in an average year. The Etruscans of northern Italy originally held public games, ( ludi), which featured such events as gladiator battles and chariot races, as a sacrifice to the gods. Let the Games Beginīefore fighting, gladiators had to swear the following oath: “I will endure to be burned, to be bound, to be beaten, and to be killed by the sword.” In ancient Rome, death had become a form of entertainment. But if the crowd is dissatisfied with the losing fighter - as was usually the case - its dissatisfaction meant slaughter. If the losing gladiator has put up a good fight, the crowd might choose to spare his life - and the vanquished gladiator will live to fight another day. The victor waits for a sign from the crowd. Suddenly, one gladiator traps the other with a net and poises to kill him with a three-pronged trident. The gladiators jab swords and swing maces. What’s more, the fight must last long enough to please the crowd. They are gladiators, men who fight to the death for the enjoyment of others.Īs the two gladiators circle each other, each knows that his objective is to maim or trap his opponent rather than to kill him quickly. Both combatants realize full well that this day might be their last. An excited crowd of Romans cheer loudly in anticipation. Gladiators, Chariots, and the Roman Games

Sand of coliseum game