The ancient Romans were a civilization that began in the city of Rome around the 8th century BCE and grew to dominate much of Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East. They are known for several key achievements:

1. Engineering and Architecture: The Romans excelled in building infrastructure such as aqueducts, roads, and monumental structures like the Colosseum and the Pantheon, showcasing advanced engineering techniques.

2. Law and Governance: They developed a sophisticated legal system that influenced modern law, including concepts like justice and legal representation.

3. Military Organization: The Roman military was highly structured and effective, contributing to the expansion and protection of the empire.

4. Culture and Language: Roman culture, including literature, art, and philosophy, laid the foundation for Western civilization. Latin, their language, is the precursor to the Romance languages.

5. Public Health and Sanitation: They created complex sanitation systems, including public baths and sewage systems, significantly improving urban health and hygiene.

These achievements left a lasting legacy that continues to impact the world today.