Gladiators

Ancient Roman citizens watched gladiators in a very gruesome sport. Bravely, gladiators fought to the death in fights that took place in the amphitheater. There were two types of people who participated in the fights, those who volunteered and those who were forced.  Criminals, slaves and war prisoners were forced. Murderers were even forced to fight without any weapon at all! The volunteer gladiators, who were trained by the emperor, fearlessly entered the arena. Who or what did they fight? Bears, lions, crocodiles, and even each other!  After admitting defeat, the crowd decided the gladiators fate. Thumbs toward him meant keep him alive. And thumbs pointing away from him, meant he was to be killed. Gladiators who were successful in winning were considered Roman heroes. This may have seemed cruel, but the Roman people enjoyed watching this repugnant sport.