As a previous reviewer has noted, this is the standard text for any survey study of the Roman state and people. Well and concisely written, this is the place to start for anyone seeking a broad review of the history of the Roman state, from its legendary and archeological inception to the last days of Justinian. Clearly organized and, unlike some other books written to satisfy the requirements of the undergraduate classroom, presented in a style that will satisfy both the casual as well as historically trained reader, this text broadly and completely covers the essential events, figures and characteristics of the social, political, cultural and military developments that define the Roman civilization from its birth in legend to its political decline and transformation during the rule of the Dominate, eventually evolving into the Romanized societies and political entities that were to define and characterize the early Middle Ages. If there is any criticism that can be leveled at this work, it is only regarding the price, though if you visit your local university bookstore, it is likely you can find a clean used copy at a cost more commensurate with what should be expected.