How Inflation Destroyed the Roman Empire

Posted on by

There were many reasons the Roman Empire fell but, inflation and government spending were huge parts.  Government stimulus programs and public works became common then as they are today.  People today underestimate the complexity of the Roman Empire but, their bureaucracy was almost as large as ours today.  Aqueducts were often created to give people employment just like “The Community Reinvestment Act” seeks to do today.  I find this interesting on many different levels.  For one, Rome’s policies were very similar to ours today.  They even had similar names like jobs bill and community reinvestment act.    There is a book written in the 1940s called the “New Deal in Old Rome” that compares Roman governance in the later Empire to New Deal programs.  The parallels are almost bizarre.

Then, just like today, government bureaucracy and spending were only part of the problem, the much bigger problem was inflation.  Inflation was rampant and brought the Empire to its knees.  The rates of inflation increased over time at a similar rate to that at which the United States is currently.

 

What is really staggering is that the Roman Empire’s fiscal transgressions are nothing compared to the modern United States’.  Rome had to dilute its coins by recalling them every few years and watering them down with other metals, while the U.S. can simply print bills of credit to infinity with no checks in place at all.  Nero would be envious indeed of the American State’s monetary power.  Rome also centralized everything into its capital city and attempted to regulate its provinces from afar but, again this is nothing compared to the centralization that Washington DC has been able to accomplish.  For all the corruption that infected the Roman government, it is tame compared to the corruption of the American Political Class. Here is a brief presentation on Roman Inflation.

This one is a bit longer.

 

 

23,409 thoughts on “How Inflation Destroyed the Roman Empire”

  6. I’m amazed, I have to admit. Seldom do I
    encounter a blog that’s both equally educative and engaging, and let me tell you, you’ve hit the nail on the head.
    The problem is something that not enough people are speaking intelligently about.
    Now i’m very happy I found this during my search for something relating to this.

    Here is my site – Sextreffen

    Reply ↓

  7. Hello would you mind letting me know which web host you’re using?
    I’ve loaded your blog in 3 different browsers and I must say this blog loads a lot faster then most.
    Can you recommend a good web hosting provider at a fair price?
    Thanks, I appreciate it!

    Reply ↓

  8. Pretty section of content. I simply stumbled upon your blog and in accession capital to
    claim that I acquire in fact loved account your blog posts.
    Anyway I will be subscribing for your feeds and even I achievement you get admission to constantly rapidly.

    Reply ↓

  19. Greetings, fellow enthusiast. I must commend you on your shrewd
    analysis of the subject matter presented in this blog post.

    Your discerning observations and articulate commentary have reverberated with me, and I determine myself in alignment with
    the convictions you have proclaimed.

    Given your palpable fascination in the realm of technological finance, I would be remiss if I did not
    offer an summons for you to immerse yourself in the
    thrilling world of Crypto Casino. This cutting-edge platform offers a one-of-a-kind and
    gripping expedition , uniting the rush of long-standing casino gaming with the cutting-edge
    innovations of digital assets . I believe you would discover it
    a most mesmerizing expedition . I beseech you to join us and find
    the boundless prospects that are poised you.

    Have a look at my web site online casino minimum deposits

    Reply ↓

  30. Respectfully fellow spectator,

    I unearthed the ideas shared in this blog post to be
    remarkably fascinating. The writer’s command
    of the topic is indeed commendable.

    If you are craving a spellbinding and beneficial digital
    gaming adventure, I would enthusiastically appeal to you to explore the offerings of VIVARO CASINO.

    With its comprehensive range of stimulating
    diversions , generous incentives , and user-friendly experience ,
    VIVARO CASINO facilitates an one-of-a-kind entertainment environment that
    satisfies both rookie and experienced
    fans alike .

    I encourage you to try VIVARO CASINO and unveil the
    thrill that is ready to be enjoyed you. I am firmly believe you will regard the adventure to be most gratifying .

    Cordial regards

    my blog: Online casino games

    Reply ↓

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *