Polybian Cycle

The Polybian Cycle is a historical method used to understand how the power of the Roman Republic shifted over time, especially through military expansion and internal change. It describes a pattern where Rome's dominance grows as it conquers neighboring regions, then faces challenges that lead to political instability and Civil Wars. These struggles often result in the rise of strong leaders like Julius Caesar who centralize power, ending the Republic. Eventually, this cycle of expansion, internal conflict, and authoritarian rule repeats, illustrating the dynamics behind Rome's transformation from a republic to an empire.