ABSTRACT
The great roads, which increased in number under the Republic, contributed to render trade easier. It is indeed clear that a widespread system of economic relationships could not have been created in the interior of the country unless roads capable of being used by all classes of vehicles had been constructed and kept in repair. Important though the traffic conducted by means of sea-going and river navigation was, it could not satisfy every requirement. It came about that the roads, which were constructed in the first place to transport the legions, to ensure the subjugation of the conquered countries, the suppression of any revolts which might break out and the passage of officials of all classes, were used in the interests of commerce. This was probably an unexpected result, but it was none the less welcomed by the statesmen of the Republic.
