Political corruption spread throughout Roman society from "summary" of The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon
The corruption of the best things gives rise to the worst. The Roman Empire, once a shining example of power and civilization, fell prey to the insidious grasp of political corruption. This cancer spread throughout the body of Roman society, infecting every aspect of governance and public life. The noble ideals of the Republic were discarded in favor of personal gain and power. The emperors, once revered as symbols of strength and leadership, became puppets of their corrupt advisors and senators. Bribes and favors were exchanged freely, with no regard for the welfare of the people. The once mighty Senate, the heart of Roman government, became a den of thieves and liars. The provinces, far from the center of power in Rome, suffered the most from this rampant corruption. Governors and officials exploited their positions for personal profit, squeezing the people dry with exorbitant taxes and fees. The citizens, once proud subjects of Rome, now lived in fear and poverty. The military, once the pride of the Empire, was not immune to the taint of corruption. Promotions were bought and sold, loyalty was a rare commodity, and incompetence reigned supreme. The soldiers, once the defenders of Rome, now served only themselves and their commanders. The decline of the Roman Empire can be traced back to this pervasive corruption. As the moral fiber of society unraveled, so too did the very foundations of the Empire. No amount of military might or political maneuvering could save Rome from itself. The once great civilization crumbled under the weight of its own greed and deceit.
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