The Rise of the Roman Empire

Polybius stresses that studying history is imperative for personal and political growth. He criticizes his predecessors for providing a one-sided view of history, emphasizing the successes and glories of their affiliated countries. Polybius hopes to present a more balanced and impartial history of Rome’s rise and the reasons for the republic’s success: “A good man ought to love his friends and his country, and should share both their hatreds and their loyalties. But once a man takes up the role of the historian he must discard all considerations of this kind” (55).

The Greek historian suggests that the success of the Roman Republic lies in a blend of good fortune and sound political strategy. By studying the past movements of the Romans, historians can better understand the future. Polybius provides a summary of movements leading up to Rome’s rise to power, showing how major wars altered the global landscape, allowing the Romans to retake power over their city through careful negotiation.

Polybius argues that historical events have become increasingly interconnected. The Hannibalic War, for example, paved the way for Rome to expand into Greece and Asia. The Romans immediately began to expand their power by defeating the Etruscans, Celts, and Samnites, thereby enlarging their territories.