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Feb 2010
14m 42s

015b- The Second Samnite War

MIKE DUNCAN
About this episode
After a five year break, hostilities resumed between the Romans and Samnites. Despite early setbacks, Rome eventually emerged victorious in 304 BC. During these years a controversial politician, Appius Claudius, initiated a series of ambitious public works projects that advanced Roman civilization. 
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Feb 2010
016- The Third Samnite War
Rome battled a combined army of Samnites, Etruscans, Umbrians and Gauls for control of Italy. At Sentinum, the two sides fought the largest battle in Italian history up to that point. 
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Feb 2010
017- Pyrrhic Victories
The Greek cities of southern Italy called on King Pyrrhus of Epirus to protect them from Roman encroachment. Though Pyrrhus was undefeated in battle, his victories were so costly that he was forced to withdraw from Italy in 275 BC, leaving Rome in control of Magna Graecia. 
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018- A History of Rome Christmas
Many of the traditions that surround modern Christmas have their roots in Saturnalia and the Feast of Sol Invictus. 
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