**

The Roman Republic, under a structure of two consuls and a Senate became The Roman Empire under a central dictator. At a time of limited technology, travel and communication, Rome controlled and influenced a vast region of Europe, North Africa and western Asia. Roads, water projects and a well-trained and well-paid army cemented together the multi-cultural empire. The break-up of the Roman era brought about the Dark Ages from 500 CE until about 1200 CE and left Europeans at the mercy of the Vikings and each other.

The void was filled by the flourishing of the Byzantine Empire and the rise of Islam and Muslim Empires in the Middle East.

The framers of American government tried to choose from the Roman experience traits that would achieve success and power while avoiding the weaknesses and mistakes that caused the Roman Republic to perish.