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Ludicrous. Rome never was a Democracy. The United States' Democratic Republic has been built upon the Enlightenment ideals of the Era: the English Whigs, the French philosophes, etc. Even the idea that it was based on the Greek, Athenian to be exact, Democracy was a stretch in and of itself.Quote:
Originally Posted by Hannibal99
Of course, today's United States is a far cry from what Locke and Montesquieu had dreamed of.
I would say that the USA has some common themes with the roman republic, although it is perhaps more of a fond resemblance. The biggest roman influence i would have to say is the iconography.
It's hard to think of any powerful western nation that hasn't tried to emulate Rome through it's icons. But.. what does US draw upon? Other than perhaps an over use of Eagles, I honestly can't think of anything atm, though I dont doubt that there are more.Quote:
The biggest roman influence i would have to say is the iconography.
Well I believe that if Rome had no republic we wouldnt have one. And besides US democracy is kinda based off Roman one. We have a senate, voters etc. The only thing thats different is they didnt have presidents
Or equal voting rights ... but, they did have corruption, assassination, complete uncaring for their voters, etc.Quote:
Originally Posted by Hannibal99
Democracy is Greek (Athens being the prime example), Rome was never touted as an example of democracy, it was seen primarily as an Empire ... which is why a number of tyrants during history had equated themselves to the Emperors of Rome (such as Napoleon, and Mussolini). Additionally, after the Reneissance, Rome was viewed in a ... less than perfect light ... after all, it was considered that the Pope wasn't necessarily a good guy (quite the opposite), and the Pope claimed Rome.
The use of eagles permeates western culture as a symbol ... dunno why, as an eagle attacks only that which is smaller than itself.
Two fasces appear on either side of the flag of the United States in the United States House of Representatives and im pretty sure its in a few of their state emblems. Other than those i concede that there may not be that many.
The question at hand; was the Roman Empire meant to last? The short answer is yes it was. However as many have said, empires rise and fall with the march of time. I have allowed this thread to continue with hopes it would derail itself back onto topic, sadly that does not appear to be happening..
Thank you all who contributed, but i feel closing this now would be the best course of action. The current road leads to a firey death..