Ancient Roman Gladiators

Today, the idea of gladiators fighting to the death, and of a Colosseum where this could take place, demonstrates the depths to which the Roman Empire was capable of sinking. Yet, to the Romans themselves, the gladiatorial contests was one of the defining features of their civilization.

Hardly any Roman living during ancient Roman times questioned the morality of staging gladiatorial combats. Moreover, the profession of gladiator was regarded without shame, apology, or resentment. So who were these gladiators, what was their role in Roman society, and what can we learn about Ancient Rome in the process?