Gladiatorial games and chariot races in Rome were initially religious rituals, honoring various gods, before evolving into popular entertainment.

The Romans enjoyed feats of athletic strength, which they found impressive and entertaining, reflecting the pinnacle of human physical capability.

Gladiators in Roman society exemplified status dissonance, as they were often slaves yet could achieve fame and admiration through their combat skills, creating a complex social dynamic.

The Romans were very into ritual and sacrifice, taking their religious practices seriously as part of their identity.

The Byzantine Empire had politically charged factions tied to chariot teams, leading to significant riots, showing how seriously the Romans took their sports.

While gladiatorial games did involve animal fights, they were often exaggerated in movies; typically, exotic animals were showcased to demonstrate wealth and power.

The rise of monotheistic religions marks a significant shift in mentality, contrasting the ancient belief in multiple legitimate gods, which shaped the cultural landscape of the Roman Empire. Before 300 AD, Romans practiced a form of pagan polytheism where multiple gods were worshipped without a central religious authority, making religion an auxiliary aspect of life rather than a driving force.

The construction of the Colosseum was driven by Rome's wealth and power, serving as a venue for public spectacles tied to religious rituals.

In ancient Rome, sponsoring public works like roads or games was a way for politicians to gain recognition and demonstrate their wealth and commitment to society.