The Roman Republic

About the Book

In this slim and tightly-written book, the author sets forth in clear language for the general reader the essence of the political, social and military history of the Roman republic, from its founding in 510 B.C. until its demise upon Caesar's accession to power in 48 B.C.. In doing so, the author draws parallels between the Roman and American republics. The original citizens of each of those republics were predominantly farmers whose lives were marked by hard work, simplicity, moral rectitude, public responsibility, and a surprising sense of equality. Each republic steadily expanded in its geographic, political, economic and military dimensions. Each became the one superpower in its world. In each, affluence and security brought a change in the composition and character of the citizens and the political arrangements among them.

About the Author

Asa Rountree was born in Birmingham, Alabama. He was graduated from the University of Alabama, where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, and from the Harvard Law School, where he was graduated magna cum laude. He served in the Army twice, first as a military policeman at the end of World War II, and then as an infantry officer in combat in the Korean War. He has practiced law in New York City and in Birmingham, where he now lives. He is married to Helen Hill Updike, an economist and financial consultant. He has had a lifelong love affair with ancient Rome.