The Rise of the Roman Empire

The Rise of the Roman Republic is a work of history by the ancient Greek historian and statesperson Polybius. Polybius devoted his life to documenting the history of the Roman Republic’s conquest of the Mediterranean world, focusing particularly on its rise to dominance over Greece and Carthage. The Rise of the Roman Republic is a collection of books from Polybius’s more comprehensive Histories, an expansive study of the Mediterranean world from 264 to 146 BCE. In The Rise of the Roman Republic, the historian details Rome’s expansion, the Punic Wars, and the political and military structures that enabled its success. He develops theories for what has made Rome so successful, arguing that making meaning from the past leads to a better future. Polybius also applies his historical analysis to the relationship between cause and effect, a new approach that established a precedent for all social sciences. 

This guide uses the 1979 paperback edition by Penguin Books, translated by Ian Scott-Kilvert.

Note: Since The Rise of the Roman Republic is a compilation of “books” taken from the larger Histories and not every “book” has survived, the “books” in this text do not form a complete numerical sequence. Some “books” (e.g., Books 16 and 17) are therefore not included in The Rise of the Roman Republic.

Summary

Polybius was a high-ranking statesperson of the Achaean League when he was arrested during the Third Macedonian War by the Romans. His wealth, status, and reputation earned him a special position among influential Roman elites. 

Polybius traveled across the Mediterranean, interviewing officials and gathering stories about the history of the region. He compiled his research in the Histories, a comprehensive study of the Mediterranean beginning in the 140th Olympiad. The Rise of the Roman Empire is a collection of books from the Histories that center on Rome’s diplomatic and militaristic achievement. Many of these books were lost, but those that remain are considered valuable texts that provide insight into the ancient world.

Polybius applies a new approach to historical events by examining the relationship between cause and effect, seeking answers to what made Rome’s campaign for domination of the region so successful. He traces Rome’s rise through the lens of leadership, looking at military officials and policymakers across the Mediterranean and drawing a line of connection across them all. The historian argues that all events are connected and contribute to an overarching narrative of history. Understanding this comprehensive story leads to better diplomacy in the future. 

In Books 1-4, Polybius provides a history of the Mediterranean world leading up to the Second Punic War. These books chart the beginning of Rome’s rise from a regional power and trace their imperialistic pursuits toward building a Mediterranean empire. Polybius focuses on the First Punic War between Rome and Carthage and subsequent conflicts, highlighting the shifting alliances among Greek powers, such as the Aetolians and Archaeans. Polybius argues that these conflicts mark the beginning of a universal history in which global powers become increasingly intertwined.

In Books 5-8, Polybius expands his analysis of the Second Punic War while focusing on critical events in Greece, Asia, and Sicily. Rome and Hannibal take center stage in these books as Polybius explores regional conflicts and the leadership qualities that lead to success or failure. Polybius widens his lens to emphasize the interconnectedness of global powers by exploring Hannibal’s rise to power and Philip V of Macedon’s many missteps. He also highlights Rome’s political and constitutional structures, arguing that these contributed to Rome’s expansion and achievement.

Books 9-12 juxtapose strong leaders with weak ones. Polybius praises Hasdrubal, Hannibal’s brother, for his bravery and discipline in battle, even when facing defeat. He also explores the ingenuity and strategic approaches of the Roman general Scipio Africanus. The historian critiques his predecessors, especially Sicilian historian Timaeus, for failing to provide a balanced and unbiased examination of history and the relationships between causes and their outcomes.

Books 14, 15, and 18 trace the final stages of the Second Punic War and the broader realignment of Mediterranean power toward Roman dominance. Polybius centers Scipio Africanus as a model of leadership and adaptability. After securing alliances and assessing enemy weaknesses, he initiated a surprise assault that devastated the Carthaginian army. Book 15 explores the Battle of Zama and its aftermath, emphasizing Scipio’s post-victory actions. As Polybius shifts to the aftermath of the Macedonian War, his narrative centers diplomacy and its role in political success.

Books 24, 31, 36, and 39 chart the growing reach of Roman diplomacy and military pressure during the mid-2nd century BCE, especially as Rome managed power in Greece, Asia, and Africa. Book 24 centers on debates within the Achaean League and how different leaders managed Roman pressure. Book 31 brings Polybius into the narrative, as he helped Demetrius, a Seleucid prince held hostage in Rome, escape. Polybius highlights the Third Punic War and Rome’s delegations following their military achievement.

Polybius’s The Rise of the Roman Empire offers more than a chronicle of Rome’s success. It is a blueprint for understanding the forces that shape political power. Through his methodical examination of war, diplomacy, leadership, and political structure, Polybius reveals how Rome’s discipline, adaptability, and equilibrium enabled it to surpass its rivals.