Who were the Etruscans, and what was their influence on Rome?

The Etruscans were an ancient civilization that thrived in what is now Italy prior to the rise of Rome. Their influence on Rome was significant in various aspects, especially in architecture and governance. The Etruscans are credited with introducing key architectural features, such as the arch and the use of vaulted structures, which would later be foundational to Roman engineering and construction techniques. Their urban planning methods also greatly affected the layout and design of early Roman cities.

In terms of governance, the Etruscans had a sophisticated political system that included a ruling elite, which informed the development of Roman political structures. Elements such as the use of augurs for interpreting omens, religious rituals, and possibly some aspects of the Senate were influenced by Etruscan practices.

The other options do not capture the Etruscan legacy accurately. The Etruscans were not a powerful empire that conquered Rome; rather, they predated it and were eventually assimilated into Roman culture. They were not a nomadic tribe, as their civilization was established in settled city-states. While they did influence Roman hygiene practices, this was a smaller part of their overall impact compared to architecture and governance, making the correct choice the one that best encompasses their broader