Rome was set up to run as a city-state, not a large empire (e.g. the check system for proconsuls once they re-entered Rome meant that they were reluctant to do so). The development of large estates put pressure on the traditional Roman farmer - for example, grain produced in Africa and imported was cheaper than home-grown grain (and the growth of importance of those related to import / export was impacted - e.g. Pompey).

The rise of the professional army after Marius' reforms meant that men were loyal to their general, not the state (prior to these, you had to own land and have a qualification to join the army).

Power gradually moved from the Senate/State into the hands of strong personalities.

	Created by Anna Coopey almost 7 years ago

The late Roman Republic.