Question

Roman numerals were invented over 2,500 years ago. They came from ancient Roman. The Romans were active in trade and business. They had a system of writing, but they needed a way to record numbers so they developed their own system of numbers. That was Roman numerals.

Around 500 AD, a new number system was born in India. It was later known as Arabic numbers because it was largely used by Arabian businessmen and people. Roman popes (教皇) stopped the use of Arabic numbers when the new system came to Europe. They said that Roman numerals were invented by God and were perfect to use. However, compared with Arabic numbers, Roman numerals didn't have a symbol for zero and were too complicated ( 復(fù)雜) to use. From the 14th century on, Roman numerals began to be taken place by the more convenient Arabic numbers.

Today, people still use Roman numerals, though not so often. You may find these numbers on some clocks or the front pages of books. You may also see them after the names of kings, queens or popes ( e. g. Elizabeth II ). Sometimes they are used on gravestones (墓碑) as well.

1.How long have Roman numerals been used?

They have been used for__________________.

2.Why did the Romans want to develop their own system of numbers?

Because they needed a way to________________.

3.What did Roman popes say about Roman numerals?

They said God_______________ Roman numerals and Roman numerals were perfect to use.

4.What were the disadvantages of Roman numerals?

They had______________ and they were too complicated to use.

5.When did Roman numerals begin to be replaced by Arabic numbers?

Roman numerals began to be replaced by Arabic numbers from______________.

Answer 1