Inequality and its consequences from "summary" of The Fate of Rome by Kyle Harper
The deepening divide between rich and poor in the Roman Empire was not merely a moral failing or a social concern—it was a dynamic force that reshaped the fate of Rome. Inequality was woven into the very fabric of Roman society, with wealth and power concentrated in the hands of a few while the vast majority struggled to make ends meet. This stark disparity in resources had far-reaching consequences that reverberated throughout the Empire. At the heart of this inequality was the institution of slavery, which permeated every aspect of Roman life. The exploitation of millions of enslaved individuals fueled the economic engine of the Empire, allowing the elite to amass wealth and power on an unprecedented scale. This system not only dehumanized those who were trapped in bondage but also created a rigid social hierarchy that stifled mobility and opportunity for the lower classes. As the gap between rich and poor widened, social unrest simmered beneath the surface of Roman society. The disenfranchised masses, burdened by heavy taxes and high levels of debt, grew increasingly disillusioned with the ...
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