roman numbers

What are Roman Numerals and Why We Should Learn Them

Roman numerals are a part of a numeric system which originated in ancient Rome. Their usages continued after the decline of the Roman Empire as a conventional way of writing numbers throughout Europe up until 14th century when they were gradually replaced by the Arabic numerals. Nowadays, Roman numerals still have some applications in everyday life. The numbers in this additive (and subtractive) system are denoted by symbols and combination of symbols and more specifically letters from the Latin alphabet.

roman numerals

There are seven base symbols which represent fixed integer number, and all the other numbers derive from them. They are as follows:

I = 1

V = 5

X = 10

L = 50

C = 100

D = 500

M = 1000

roman numbers table

The combination and positioning of those letters can represent any number. However, they are rarely used with larger numbers than 4000. For expressing larger numbers, there should be a line above the letter. Also, there are some rules for forming the roman numbers. One of them states that you cannot use the same symbol more than three times in a row.

Other rules:

When a symbol appears after a larger (or equal) symbol, it is added to the previous symbol.

But if the symbol appears before a larger symbol, it is subtracted from the previous symbol.

Modern day usage of Roman numerals:

  • The year of construction on buildings and cornerstones.
  • In books for book volumes, chapter numbers, page numbering of prefaces and introductions, or appendices and annexes.
  • The production year of films, documentaries and television shows and other works of art (within the work of art itself). It has been suggested – by BBC News, that this was initially done “in an attempt to disguise the age of films or television programmes.”
  • In almost all cases during the credits for the copyright date on films, television programmes, and videos – for example, MCMLXXXVI for 1986. Also, naming of sequels of books, movies, video games, etc.
  • Names of monarchs and popes, Roman numerals are in this case referred to as regnal numbers and ordinals.
  • The numbering of sports events, especially recurring ones, for example, the Super Bowl, The Summer and Winter Olympic Games.
  • On some watches, clocks, where the hours are marked from  I through XII.
  • Also on Calendars, and to show the month in dates.

Why should we learn about Roman Numerals?

  • –    We still see them in real life
  • –    They combine history and math.
  • –    Learning them reinforces addition and subtraction.
  • –    Learning them helps us understand patterns and connections and form the idea of place value
  • –    Develops critical thinking and understanding abstract concepts (digits are just symbols which describe ideas/numbers)
  • –    They are common knowledge.

 

Here’s a catchy phrase: I, for one, like Roman numerals!

 

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