How Vespasian’s 70 CE urine tax on public latrines filled imperial coffers and spurred debates on purity and profit
Vespasian’s Urine Tax: Funding Rome Through the Public Latrine Levy
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Roman Economy
Tributes and Taxes: How Rome Financed an Expanding Republic in 150 BC
Dive into the world of Roman taxation during the Republic’s expansion in 150 BC and how it funded the rise of a Mediterranean empire.
Ostia: The Lifeline of Imperial Rome’s Maritime Trade
Uncover the story of Ostia, Rome’s ancient harbor, and its crucial role in feeding and fueling the empire.
Diocletian’s Price Edict: Empire, Inflation, and Control in 301 AD
In 301 AD, Emperor Diocletian issued the Edict on Maximum Prices to combat inflation and restore order to the Roman economy—an ambitious but ultimately doomed experiment in economic regulation.
Feeding the Masses: The Roman Grain Dole and Urban Welfare in the 1st Century AD
Explore how the Roman grain dole (annona) sustained the capital’s population and shaped politics, economy, and social stability in the 1st century AD.
Roman Vineyards and Wine Production in the 1st Century AD: The Taste of Empire
Explore how Romans grew, harvested, and crafted wine in the 1st century AD—turning viticulture into an industry and symbol of civilization.
Forging the Empire: Roman Blacksmiths and Metalworking in the 1st Century AD
Step into a Roman blacksmith workshop of the 1st century AD, where skilled metalworkers forged tools, weapons, and the strength of an empire.
The Roman Forum Marketplace: Commerce, Community, and Culture in the 1st Century AD
Step into the bustling Roman forum of the 1st century AD, where trade, politics, and daily life converged in the heart of the empire.
Minting Power: The Roman Coinage System in the 1st Century AD
Uncover how Roman coins were minted in the 1st century AD—tools of economy, propaganda, and imperial control across the empire.
A Day at the Market: Commerce and Culture in a Roman Provincial Town, 2nd Century AD
Step into a bustling Roman market of the 2nd century AD and explore how trade, daily life, and cultural exchange thrived in the provinces.
