In chronological order, recounting the interplay of political, social and economic factors, the author brings a unique understanding of the individual and combined roles in forming this great empire. Moreover, Rome's history is presented form two perspectives, both from that of the Romans throughout the Empire's existence, and from that of the present, as posterity has tried to understand what happened. The narrative throughout this work will provide the reader with a rare insight into what is understandably referred to as 'the eternal city'.