A short history of automobile transportation

The Romans (about 300 BC to 476 AD) were the first great road builders. They understood that a good road surface needs a strong foundation (or sub-base). Roman roads were not simple dirt tracks; they were true engineering projects. They built roads in straight lines, which was fast and good for armies.  A typical Roman road had four layers: large stones at the bottom, then smaller stones mixed with cement, and a top layer of flat, tightly compacted stones. This structure helped remove water and made the road very durable. The primary goal was military - to move soldiers quickly.

Discussion Questions

1. Why was it important for Roman roads to be built in straight lines?
2. If Roman roads used stone layers, what modern road material (e.g., gravel or concrete) is most similar to their foundation?