Farmers and shepherds were the core of the society of Ancient Rome. The main crop was cereals (especially wheat) and legumes. Later the vine was introduced, and even later the vineyards were reached and the olive tree was imported. As fruit trees highlights the fig tree. The cultivation of vegetables, legumes and flax was also important.
At first the Romans owned the land in usufruct and their wealth (pecunia) was measured by the herds, and the personal savings were the peculiar (to have won). Later private land ownership was introduced.
The first lands of the Romans were called heredium de herus (owner), and at first they did not exceed two yugada (5,400 square meters), although apart were the house, the stables, the barbechera and the pastures. These small portions of land were soon overcome and if in any case they were maintained it was for the ancient cultivators of the dominated cities, but not for the Roman citizens.
The Romans improved agricultural techniques. They introduced the Roman plow, more effective mills, such as grain, oil press, irrigation techniques and the use of fertilizer.
In addition, the farmers owned small plots or seized part of the land of the patricians. Production surpluses were sold in the cities and commercial and manual labor activities were not well seen by the Romans; therefore, they were carried out by foreigners or slaves.
