History repeats itself: the financial crisis of Rome

From pp. 331-332 in Caesar and Christ: The famous “panic” of A.D. 33 illustrates the development and complex interdependency of banks and commerce in the Empire.  Augustus had coined and spent money lavishly, on the theory that its increased circulation, low interest rates, and rising prices would stimulate business.  They did; but as the process [...]

Ah, the suite life!

As promised, here are some pictures of the suite we stayed in at the Westin Excelsior in Rome, courtesy of vickyandnorm. In case you don’t know this, Norm is a High Panjandrum in the company that owns these hotels. When I booked my room, I booked a very nice room, but then Norm stepped in [...]

Yes, I’m alive and well and updates are coming soon!

I’m in Rome at the moment. The last two days have been busy, yesterday filled with climbing Vesuvius and visiting the ruins of Pompeii, as well as packing; today, with debarking and seeing as much of Rome as I can in the few hours I have to see it. However, now that I have a [...]