ABSTRACT
The creation of a Roman frontier adminstration had several effects. It often modified existing regional exchange patterns, while the forward movement of the border created by a new frontier province opened new markets for the sale of goods from within the Empire. In most cases this was more of an expansion than an opening, being the result of easier and more secure access than previously available. In addition, the presence of the Roman army obviously affected the economy of the region, with the sudden impact of tens of thousands of wealthy non-producers on what was often a near-subsistence society. The opportunities available in servicing these individuals were immense. These two phenomena combined to produce a veritable cloud of private merchants following and supporting the army.
