The Failed Objective – An Evaluation of Imperialism in Greco-Roman Civilization

Whether militaristic, economic or political motives – there has always been an objective and goal motivating imperialism. In Macedonia, Alexander went on his conquest of the east; this is a prime example of the previous notions. Another example would be that the Romans brought Europe under one hegemonic power. This essay, will evaluate Greco-Roman civilizations, and the impact they had on the ancient and classic age. The essay will begin by providing a brief history on Greece and Rome, thus highlighting their imperialistic achievements through excerpts from the “World History” CD-ROM and the text “The Human Venture” written by Anthony Esler. These primary sources are significant because it helps illuminate the historical perspective of people involved in Greco-Roman imperialism. Finally, this essay will show that imperialism does not last, nations resist rule from foreign powers, and although imperialism brings prosperity, it causes inequality, thus leading to internal destruction.

“O my son, carve out a kingdom equal to and worthy of yourself, for Macedonia is too small for you” (Davis 137).

Map of the "barbarian" invasions of the Roman Empi...

The territorial development of the Roman state.

The Roman empire in the time of Hadrian (ruled 117...

These were the words said to young Alexander by his father Philip; his words may have influenced the greatest Macedonian imperialistic hero. The following document is an excerpt from an Athenian persuasive speaker – Demosthenes, entitled “The Spectre of Phillip: Demosthenes’ first Phillipic”, and it warns of Macedonian imperialism.

“Look at the situation, men of Athens… He [Phillip II] gives you no choice between action and living at peace, but threatens… and cannot be satisfied by his conquests, but is always seeking fresh acquisitions and trying to hedge us in on all sides” (Ellis and Milne 134).

The major strength of this document is that it shows the perspective of a weaker nation – Athens. The document also illustrates the importance of a nation’s sovereignty. It is unlikely that...