<P>Revised and updated to include the latest research in the field, this second edition of a popular history text examines how the Roman republic was destabilized by the unplanned growth of the Roman Empire.<BR><BR>Central discussion points include:</P><UL><LI>the government of the republic</LI><LI>how certain individuals took advantage of the expansion of the empire</LI><LI>Julius Caesar''s accession to power</LI><LI>the rise of the Augustan principate following Julius Caesar''s murder.</LI></UL><P>Drawing on a wealth of recent scholarship and including an expanded and updated guide to further reading, a chronology, and a guide to the provinces of the Roman Empire, students of history and classical studies will find this a helpful and accessible introduction to this complex period in history.</P>