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Understanding Roman Numerals

Roman numerals are a numeral system that originated in ancient Rome and remained the usual way of writing numbers throughout Europe well into the Late Middle Ages. The system uses combinations of letters from the Latin alphabet to signify values: I (1), V (5), X (10), L (50), C (100), D (500), and M (1000). Numbers are formed by combining these symbols and adding or subtracting their values based on their position.

The system evolved over time from earlier Etruscan numerals. The subtractive notation (like IV for 4 or IX for 9), where a smaller value preceding a larger one is subtracted, became more common later to shorten representations. Despite its historical prevalence, the lack of a zero and the complexity of arithmetic operations led to its gradual replacement by the Hindu-Arabic numeral system (the base-10 system we use today) starting around the 11th century.

Today, Roman numerals are used primarily for stylistic or traditional purposes. Common uses include numbering chapters, clock faces, monarchs or popes (e.g., Elizabeth II), Super Bowl editions, film sequels, and outlining. This converter translates standard Arabic numerals into their Roman numeral equivalents and vice versa, following standard formation rules.