Latin expressions explained (13): Mare Nostrum.

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Latin expressions explained (13): Mare Nostrum.

This nominal expression became popular in the Roman Empire as it conquered territories around the Mediterranean, and after the destruction of pirates by Pompey in -67 (during which Rome was still a Republic).

Mare Nostrum therefore means « our sea », as all the shores of the Mediterranean belong to the Roman Empire. This sea thus became a great inland lake. The expression used by the Romans reflects both a reality and a pride. By extension, the expression can be applied to territories or domains that are enclosed, dominated by someone, by a field of competence, or by a country.

China seeks to make the South China Sea a new Mare Nostrum. (A sea that it completely dominates…)

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