Why did the ancient Roman government begin the "bread and circuses" program to keep the poor fed and entertained?

They cared about the welfare of their citizens.

They hoped that the poor would vote to keep the existing politicians in office.

They wanted to establish a good reputation to make diplomacy with other cultures easier.

They hoped to keep the poor from rebelling against the government.

Question

Why did the ancient Roman government begin the "bread and circuses" program to keep the poor fed and entertained?
		
They cared about the welfare of their citizens.
		
They hoped that the poor would vote to keep the existing politicians in office.
		
They wanted to establish a good reputation to make diplomacy with other cultures easier.
		
They hoped to keep the poor from rebelling against the government.

anonymous · Answer

They wanted to keep the people from rallying and rioting, because many of them were unemployed and much time on their hands. Therefore, providing them with something to do allowed the citizens to occupy their time.

anonymous · Answer

had much time*

anonymous · Answer

thank you wikepidia was not giving much help

anonymous · Answer

You're welcome. ^^"