This section provides a basic introduction to the major phases of Roman history, and to some basic questions: 1) why, in terms of geography and social structure, did the Roman empire grow so fast and so far? 2) what were the major probems that led to chaos and revolution in the late republic? 3) why did the imperial system last so long, and what finally caused Rome to "fall"? The long negotiation between "pagan" and Christian did brought new forms of thought, worship, art, and architecture, so "fall" is not exactly the right word...
Click HERE for the overiew
Click HERE for a geographical tour of the Empire