Latin is an ancient language originally spoken in the region of Latium in central Italy. As the Roman empire expanded its language became established throughout most of Europe. Latin has remained in continual use since the fall of the Roman empire, leaving its mark on every facet of Western Civilization: art, law, science, etc. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, Latin was the language of diplomacy and education and was the only language of instruction in European universities until the end of the 17th century. Some of our greatest literary masterpieces were composed in Latin: Vergil's Aeneid, Ovid's Metamorphoses, and More's Utopia, to name but a few. Many important scientific and philosophical works, such as Newton's Principia Mathematica, were also originally written in Latin. Even after thousands of years the legacy of the Ancient Romans can be seen around us in our public spaces, institutions, and artistic traditions. Latin helps us appreciate our past and understand our present, as we look to the future.