Due to self-defence, loyalty to allies, trade, or the desire for honour and wealth, the Romans expanded their borders. This expansion was successful due to the city's political perspicacity when dealing with their defeated foes.

The reasons for Roman expansion are uncertain, although historians do have theories. Polybius, an officer in the Greek Achaean League, believed that after their victory over Hannibal, the Romans aspired to dominating all lands before them (in Gowen, 2000). On the contrary, other historians have suggested that the Romans only expanded due to a desire to protect themselves from further war and carnage. To do this, the Romans would have to increase their territory to gain more manpower for their army; hence the use of expansion to gain greater self-defence. However, Polybius' theory is much more plausible as the Romans were known for their vigour and prowess in battle and after one victory would...