An Early form of Newspaper

Romans did have something akin to the contemporary system of daily, paper newspapers, however this cannot be claimed. They frequently wrote current events on stones, papyri, or metal slabs that were left in public areas.

Romans were renowned for using official texts outlining military, judicial, and civil matters to contribute to public dialogue. These early newspapers, known as Acta Diurna, or "daily acts," were inscribed on metal or stone and then posted in busy areas like the Roman Forum. Acta are thought to have first appeared around 131 B.C., and they frequently contained information about Roman military victories, a schedule of games and gladiatorial contests, birth and death announcements, and even human interest stories. The Roman senate's proceedings were described in the Acta Senatus, which was also present. These were customarily kept secret from the public until Julius Caesar ordered their publishing in 59 B.C. as one of the numerous populist changes he put into place during his first consulship.

This is one of the Ancient Roman Inventions that served a similar function to that of contemporary newspapers by informing Roman residents of military triumphs, births and deaths, and even human interest stories. Unfortunately, no complete copies have survived.