The Storm Before the Storm: The Beginning of the End of the Roman Republic

Mike Duncan

Oct 2017 · Hachette Audio · Narrated by Mike Duncan

About this audiobook

The creator of the award-winning podcast series The History of Rome and Revolutions brings to life the bloody battles, political machinations, and human drama that set the stage for the fall of the Roman Republic.

The Roman Republic was one of the most remarkable achievements in the history of civilization. Beginning as a small city-state in central Italy, Rome gradually expanded into a wider world filled with petty tyrants, barbarian chieftains, and despotic kings. Through the centuries, Rome's model of cooperative and participatory government remained remarkably durable and unmatched in the history of the ancient world.

In 146 BC, Rome finally emerged as the strongest power in the Mediterranean. But the very success of the Republic proved to be its undoing. The republican system was unable to cope with the vast empire Rome now ruled: rising economic inequality disrupted traditional ways of life, endemic social and ethnic prejudice led to clashes over citizenship and voting rights, and rampant corruption and ruthless ambition sparked violent political clashes that cracked the once indestructible foundations of the Republic.

Chronicling the years 146-78 BC, The Storm Before the Storm dives headlong into the first generation to face this treacherous new political environment. Abandoning the ancient principles of their forbearers, men like Marius, Sulla, and the Gracchi brothers set dangerous new precedents that would start the Republic on the road to destruction and provide a stark warning about what can happen to a civilization that has lost its way.

Ratings and reviews

Gosh it was nice having another ten hours of awesome Roman history from Duncan. He really gets his details in, but keeps you engaged (partially with the help of a small cheeky turn of phrase every now and again). Here's hoping he does another of these for the crisis of the third century!

Excellent book. I would instantly recommend this book to anyone who is even somewhat interested in Rome. Mike brings his fantastic sense of humor and maintains it throughout. Very informative. This guy turned me into a history addict. If you have listened to any of his podcasts, you will feel right at home.

What a great book! I got so submerged in this book, that I couldn't stop. Definitely gave me a passion for history and revitalized my love for it.

About the author

Mike Duncan is one of the foremost history podcasters in the world and author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Storm Before the Storm. His award-winning series The History of Rome has generated more than ninety million downloads and remains one of the most popular history podcasts on the internet. Duncan has continued this success with his ongoing series Revolutions -- which so far has explored the English, American, French, and Haitian Revolutions. Since debuting in September 2013, Revolutions has generated more than forty-four million downloads.