From which civilization did the Romans borrow the toga, the arch, and gladiatorial games?

The Romans borrowed the toga, the arch, and gladiatorial games primarily from the Etruscans, an ancient civilization that inhabited central Italy before and during the rise of Rome.

The toga, which became a symbol of Roman citizenship, has its origins in Etruscan attire. It was initially a garment worn by Etruscan men and later adopted by the Romans as they sought to create a distinct identity that differentiated them from their predecessors.

The use of the arch in architecture, which became a hallmark of Roman engineering and design, was significantly influenced by Etruscan techniques. The Etruscans were known for their innovative use of the arch in bridges and buildings, an aspect that the Romans improved upon and utilized extensively in their own monumental structures.

Gladiatorial games, originally a practice related to Etruscan funerary rituals, saw transformation and popularization by the Romans. These games, which provided entertainment through combat and displays of strength, were integrated into Roman culture and became a significant part of their public spectacle.

Thus, the connection of these cultural elements to the Etruscans highlights the foundational influence they had on Roman civilization in its early development.