OCR GCSE Ancient History key terms

The name given to a venomous snake traditionally associated with Cleopatra’s death; the exact method of her suicide remains uncertain.

The deliberate murder of an important public figure, usually connected with political power.

The meeting of Athenian male citizens that debated and voted on public affairs.

A Babylonian record combining observations of astronomical phenomena with information about events on earth.

Athena ‘the Virgin’, represented by Pheidias’ gold-and-ivory statue inside the Parthenon.

Athena as guardian of the city, worshipped through an ancient wooden image distinct from the statue of Athena Parthenos.

Athena ‘who fights in the front line’, represented by Pheidias’ large bronze statue on the Athenian Acropolis.

A political group in central southern Britain whose rulers developed trading and political relationships with Rome; Verica was one of its kings.

The countryside and territory surrounding the city of Athens.

A judgement that an unsigned artwork was probably made by a particular artist or workshop, rather than certainty established by a signature.

A strategy of gradually wearing down an enemy’s manpower and resources rather than seeking one decisive battle.

A Roman religious official who interpreted signs, particularly those involving birds, to judge whether the gods approved an action.

The interpretation of signs believed to reveal divine approval or disapproval. An augur was the religious specialist who interpreted these signs.

The period and political culture associated with Octavian after he became Augustus. Augustan writing often celebrated his victory and Rome's renewed strength.

The god whose support Persian kings invoked to present their kingship as divinely authorised.

A community’s ability to govern its own affairs rather than being controlled by another state.

Troops recruited outside the Roman citizen legions, providing infantry, cavalry and other military support.

The animals, people and equipment carrying an army’s supplies during a march.

The relative strength of competing states, including their military forces, wealth, territory and ability to influence others.

A Greek and Roman label for outsiders, often used in historical accounts to suggest that they were uncivilised. It is not a neutral modern description.

Hamilcar Barca’s family and its associated supporters, including his son Hannibal and his son-in-law Hasdrubal the Fair.

A Greek victory over Persian forces in sea and land battles at the Eurymedon River in 468 BC.

A protected position established after landing in enemy territory, allowing troops and supplies to come ashore.

Darius’ royal inscription and relief at Behistun, presenting his accession and victories over rebels as legitimate and divinely supported.

Someone who has provided help or a gift to another person. Syloson claimed this status when seeking a reward from Darius.

A perspective or preference that influences how evidence is selected and presented.

An account of a person’s life, often organised to reveal their character as well as describe their actions.