The Ancient Romans were the people of the Roman Republic and later the Roman Empire, which existed from around 753 BC to AD 476 in the West. They are known for their contributions to law, government, engineering, and architecture. The Romans built impressive structures like the Colosseum and aqueducts, showcasing their advanced engineering skills. Roman society was structured with distinct classes, including patricians (noble families) and plebeians (common citizens). The Romans spoke Latin, which influenced many modern languages. Their culture was rich in art, literature, and philosophy, with notable figures like Cicero and Virgil shaping their intellectual legacy.