What role did economic factors play in the Republic's decline?

Economic factors played a significant role in the decline of the Roman Republic. The Republic was initially built on a strong agricultural economy, where small farmers were the backbone of Roman society. However, as Rome expanded its territories, large-scale farming became more profitable, leading to the displacement of small farmers. The rise of latifundia, or large estates, owned by the wealthy elites led to a decline in agricultural productivity and the loss of a self-sufficient citizenry. Furthermore, widespread slave labor in agriculture and industry marginalized the Roman working class and led to social unrest. Economic inequality and corruption among the ruling aristocracy further deepened the social divisions in Rome. These economic disparities, along with financial mismanagement, rampant inflation, and debt crisis, eventually weakened the Republic's institutions and contributed to its downfall.

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