08-12-2013, 03:15 PM
I have noticed that during some historical periods where large societies/states began tearing itself apart, there are usually economic woes preceding it. I've heard of some of the social issues facing Republican Rome in the 2nd and 1st Centuries BCE, ie. the reduction of the land owning "middle class" and the rise of the plutocrats. However, I am wondering if there are any other indications of other problems, such as inflation, coin debasement, drought, disease, etc. that could have exacerbated the situation. Any thoughts?