Explore the ingenuity and culture of Ancient Rome, a civilization whose innovations in engineering, law, and architecture continue to shape the modern world. Discover the secrets behind the Romans' remarkable, self-healing marine concrete. Learn about the immense value of Tyrian purple, a dye so expensive it was reserved for emperors and senators, and how ancient superstitions surrounding left-handedness gave us the modern word "sinister." The episode also delves into daily life and culture, revealing how a unibrow was considered a mark of beauty and intelligence for Roman women.

Learn how the Roman Senate, a "council of elders," inspired the structure of the United States government and how Julius Caesar's calendar reform established the 365-day year and leap year system we follow. Finally, see how modern science is revealing the original, vibrant colors of ancient marble statues, challenging our classical image of pure white sculptures.

Want to learn more? Head over to my website www.funfactsdailypod.com and be sure to listen to my other podcasts Who ARTed: Weekly Art History for All Ages or Art Smart. For family fun, check out my son's podcast Rainbow Puppy Science Lab

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