The history of ancient Rome is typically divided into three main periods: the Roman Kingdom, the Roman Republic, and the Roman Empire. The Roman Kingdom lasted from 753 to 509 BCE, marked by the rule of kings and the establishment of early Roman institutions. The Roman Republic followed, lasting from 509 to 27 BCE, characterized by a system of elected officials and a Senate. This period saw significant expansion and conflict, including the Punic Wars. The Roman Empire began in 27 BCE and continued until the fall of the Western Empire in 476 CE, marked by imperial rule and vast territorial conquests.