02-18-2014, 03:06 PM
Quote:A question that has probably been asked before, but of enough gravity to discus again;
In the 3rd century, possibly even earlier, the roman empire became less centred on Rome and Italy. Industry, trade, art, recruitment etcetera, to a large extent, took place in the outskirts of the empire. Cities like Leptis Magna booming.
Of course this had impacts on Rome itself. Why did these changes occur and what was their actual implication to life in the empire?
Cheers // Joakim
Well I think one can write many a book about this (and already did)
There is no simple aswer to your question but remember that in the 3'rd century the so called "Crisis" of the empire was ongoing.
The changes occured in my opinion from the interaction between the emperor, the two classes senators and the rich, and the army itself. The fact that Rome (and Italy) plays a lesser role can be seen from the rectruitment pattern of the army. Remember this is the time that the coin denomination takes place, this is a time when emperors came ang go (most of them are killed), is a time when the emperors are soldiers not politicians and I can continue with this.
Well I think that you will find your answer if you read several books about the subject, and I really mean this, there is no simple answer.
I also think that each of us should discover the answer for himself, there are too many theories and discussions out there, pluse the sources we have are not the best ones, we have, in my humble opinion, much better sources for pre and post that for the 3'rd century.
Sorry for my English
