The Histories of Polybius, Vol. 1 (of 2)

A historical account written in the late 19th century. This work offers an extensive examination of the rise of the Roman Republic and its interactions with various Greek states during a tumultuous period in history. The author, Polybius, provides insights into political and military strategies, as well as the implications of the Roman conquest for Greece and its city-states. The opening of this volume serves as a preface to Polybius's endeavor of documenting the events that shaped the Mediterranean world. He emphasizes the importance of firsthand experience and investigation in historical writing, asserting that his observations provide a more valuable perspective than secondhand accounts. The text highlights Polybius's background as someone deeply involved in politics and warfare, lending credibility to his narrative. He begins to set the stage for an exploration of the sociopolitical dynamics between Rome and the Greek states, ultimately illustrating the complexities faced during their entwined histories.