The Rise of Rome

The Rise of Rome

The Roman Republic began in 509 B.C.E. with the overthrow of the Etruscan monarchy. In 27 B.C.E the Roman Empire began with Octavian Caesar becoming the emperor, this ended almost 500 years of republican self-government. There is much debate over why Rome became so powerful so quickly. Many think it had to do with Rome's military strength. Others think that it was because Rome knew of and controlled most of the trade routes. Still others believed it had to do with the technology that was advanced during the Roman Republic. All of these factors played significant roles, but which one played the most important role?

The military might of Rome was second to none in its prime. Victorious battle after battle did nothing but increase Rome's population of young men suited for combat, increase Rome's borders, and increase Rome's influence over its people and the surrounding people. With such great generals as Alexander the Great, Pompey the Great, and Julius Caesar Rome won many decisive battles. At its largest times, Rome controlled most of the Middle East, Asia Minor, present day Europe, and Egypt. It's is hard to state that conquering and controlling all of the surrounding territory didn't help aid in Rome's great success. But would they have been so successful militarily if they didn't have the trade routes or the technology?

Trade routes between Rome and all of its surrounding territories were extremely important. They not only brought in food and materials, but also great wealth to the Roman Republic/Empire. These trade routes were the subject of many battles between Rome and its neighbors. Trade is extremely important to any civilization that intends on growing and prospering. There were basically two different kinds of trade routes. The sea routes which incorporated shipping items over water and the land routes where they carted items back and forth, both of which provided items and money into the economy of Rome. Such items as grains, cereals, papyrus, and silk were traded. Control and the efficient use of these trades routes certainly helps a developing nation, but is it the main