Decline of the Roman Republic
Post Punic Wars Roman Expansion Treatment based off of proximity to Rome Closer to Rome = full citizenship Further from Rome = protection; taxes
Post Punic Wars Creation of “Latfundia” Huge estates Peasants forced off land and into cities This caused more problems in the cities
Causes of Collapse Spread of slavery in the agricultural system Rome had many slaves, and this put many small farmers out of business Slaves made up about 30% of Rome’s population
Causes of Collapse Migration of small farmers into the cities Unemployment Inflation of Rome’s currency (money) Money lost value
The Republic Collapses Two Tribunes (plebs) try to reform Tiberius and Gaius Giving land to the poor, limiting latfundia Both were assassinated (133 & 121 B.C.E.) Civil War followed
Military Leaders Take Control Julius Caesar