The geographic location of the Italian peninsula in the central Mediterranean provided easy access to trade routes between Europe, Asia and Africa, which contributed to Rome's rise. The rugged mountains also provided protection for the northern Italian settlements. The Etruscans were the first inhabitants of northern Italy from around 750 BCE and conquered Rome around 600 BCE. They introduced artistic styles, religious practices, the alphabet and other cultural influences. The Etruscans ruled Rome under a monarchy for over 200 years until the last Etruscan king, Tarquin the Proud, was expelled in 509 BCE due to a popular rebellion, paving the way for Rome to establish itself as a republic.