Rome was the largest and most beautiful city of the ancient world.
The magnificent facade of the empire, however, could not conceal the seeds of decay. The unhealthy dependence of the economy on slaves, the great disparity between rich and poor.
Behind the splendor of the forum were vast areas of crowded slums. Escape from the slums was difficult for there were few jobs available, practically none for the unskilled. To keep vital citizens entertained and out of mischief frequent games and spectacles were held at public expense.
At first only chariot races were held,
but soon brutal combat to the death had become popular.
Earlier in Rome's history elected officials, senators, ruled. But soon all power had absorbed by the emperor who was above the law and ruled by decree.
That a people as civilized as the Romans with the most humane system of law ever formed would tolerate the violation of human beings is astonishing. This imbalance and irresponsible behavior by public officials would become major reasons for Rome's eventual decline.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
"If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around them will deprive the people of all property until their children wake up homeless on the continent their Fathers conquered."
ReplyDeleteRon Paul '08
"I was expecting an interview on Austrian economics. So, that didn't turn out that way. But, by the time he started pulling his pants down, I, What is going on here?"
ReplyDeleteRon Paul '08
It turns out you can pledge to vote for Ron Paul at his website come 2012 (if the rabble doesn't overtake the senate) by merely submitting your email address. Seems air tight to me!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.ronpaul.com/
Until then I provide a link for your viewing and listening pleasure. Cheers gents!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_ywkpVJ624
Bill Maher talking about Obama winning the last election said "People saw black and thought, wow! Radical Liberal!" LoLz
ReplyDeleteI will always remember the night of Obama's election victory. The car honking and celebrations in the street, the impromptu student parade which culminated at the college president's mansion chanting "yes we can."
ReplyDeleteRather only hearing about these festivities later as I lay, sweating and shaking from rampant fever, in bed.
I remember a vague image of a topless girl (not very attractive) with Obama stickers over her nipples. What a beautiful century does our garden grow.
ReplyDelete