When it comes to the mighty Empire of Rome, surely its greatest gift to posterity is the Colosseum that still commands the awe and admiration of people all over the world to this day. Built with 1 million bricks laid by the hands of 30,000 slaves, the Colosseum forced the Roman Genius to develop all-new building techniques which continue to benefit architects today. But it was also a tool used by clever emperors to manipulate public opinion in their favor. However, not every aspect of Roman history is quite so triumphant: The eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in AD 79 drew down a veil over the bustling sea port of Pompeii. Encased in solidified volcanic ash, little was known about the fate that befell its inhabitants. Until now, that is…
