History Vault Logo

Criminal History: Ancient Rome

44m | 2005 | TV-PG V | CC

In this one-hour, recreation-driven documentary, we focus on law and order in ancient Rome. As we recount Roman true-crime stories, we also explore the creation and function of various Roman law enforcement agencies, including the Vigiles, the Urban Cohort, and the Praetorian Guard. Viewers examine the tools, techniques, and technologies the ancient Romans used to do their jobs, and learn how trials and punishment worked, including the role of gladiators in the Roman system of law and order.