Italy like many other 'countries' at the time were divided into 'tribes' of mainly Celtic peoples. The Celts who became so dominant throughout Europe, due to technological advances in iron and with the horse and chariot, were split into many different tribes without the ability to read or write. The Romans were a highly organised people who were able to 'civilise' these tribes and invite those who defended them to be part of towns with many social and economic benefits. Those who opposed them were marginalised and excluded in often barbaric ways. The Romans were actually able to rule with a very small government due to this system of carrot and stick. This is obviously very diluted but hopefully it will help.