... its original constitution and the principles that inspired it. This loss of their original idealism and the abandonment of the workings of the republic were the starting causes of the downfall of Rome that added to the dissension from within. The next step on the way down was both a practical one and one that, over the course of history, has shown ... to contribute heavily to any great power's downfall. Originally, the Roman legions were recruited from the land owning citizenry of the empire that had a vested interest in the foreign campaigns for new territories and conquests. But by 18...

• Word Count: 1203
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate