Final answer:
The Romans developed a patronage system and 'bread and circus' government policies to support the urban poor. A strong family unit was central to Roman social structures, and slavery played a key role in the economy but negatively affected free citizens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Assistance to the Poor in ancient Rome
To help the poor, ancient Rome developed several systems and practices. One of these was the practice of patronage, where wealthy individuals known as patrons provided financial and social support to the lower classes, who were their clients. This was supplemented during the Imperial period with the policy of 'bread and circus', which provided free grain and entertainment to appease the urban masses. The Roman economy also provided opportunities for work in public construction projects, as contracted through publicans, who also collected taxes. Though there were jobs available through these public works, life was not easy for the proletariat, who dealt with overcrowding and meager employment.
The Roman family unit played a significant role in the social structure, with each member working to further the family's prosperity and status. For the lower classes, life often involved less stable employment, and they relied heavily on complex societal structures such as the patronage system to support themselves.
Another important aspect of the Roman economy was slavery, which was a significant source of labor and economic activity but also contributed to undermining the position of free citizens, particularly affecting farmers and the pace of innovation.