Roman Republic
In Rome's early years, most Romans worked their own small farms. The Punic Wars changed Roman society dramatically, as Romans began enslaving enemy captives. These slaves were put to work, making large plantations possible—and profitable. These changes made the Roman Republic a slave-based society.

Roman Empire
How important was slavery to the Roman Empire? The empire could not have been built without the muscles of slaves. Ironically, slavery may also have helped cause its downfall.

Millions of people were enslaved throughout Rome's territory. Most were war captives or kidnapped in lootings. At times, slaves outnumbered freemen three times over. Roman law treated slaves brutally. Slaves could not possess property, enter into contracts, or marry. If a slave owner died violently within his own house, his slaves could be executed because they had not prevented his death. However, a slave was permitted to buy his freedom and become a Roman citizen.

Such brutal treatment infuriated the slaves. Since slaves usually greatly outnumbered their owners, they often revolted. The most famous slave revolt was led by Spartacus. His army of 90,000 defeated two Roman armies before he was killed in battle and thousands of his soldiers captured and crucified.

Over time, Roman slaves shouldered more responsibilities in agriculture, home life and government. Free Romans assumed that any service could be accomplished by slaves, excusing them from practical concerns—and the need to learn practical skills. Some historians believe that this attitude led to the fall of Rome.

Picture: Erich Lessing/Art Resource, NY