The decline of the Roman Republic was marked by internal political rivalries that escalated after the Punic Wars, leading to a breakdown of elite consensus and increased civil strife.

The late Roman Republic, from 133 to 31 BC, was marked by constant internal conflict and civil wars due to the unequal distribution of wealth and power.

The Roman Republic's success led to widespread unhappiness among various groups in society, creating a boiling pot of resentment despite its wealth and expansion.

The aristocrats in Rome became increasingly dissatisfied as power became concentrated in a smaller subset of their class, leading to feelings of exclusion.

By around 100 BC, despite Rome's success, nearly every group within society felt they had not shared in the benefits, leading to intense unhappiness and internal strife.

The wealthy Romans had the leisure time to engage in literacy and statecraft, believing this made them the best suited to lead the Republic, despite their reluctance to educate the lower classes.

The rise of ambitious strongmen in the late Republic, such as Marius, Sulla, and Julius Caesar, undermined the institutions of the Republic, prioritizing personal gain over the state.

The Roman Republic lasted for 500 years, enduring significant upheaval, but eventually transformed into an authoritarian military dictatorship after internal conflicts.

In early Roman society, only property owners could serve in the legions, reflecting the belief that those who fought for Rome should have a vested interest in its defense.