Question

How did trade in the Roman Republic lead to the development of the merchant class?

Answer 1

As the gap between the poor and wealthy grew so did the tension between the two groups. The conquest of new lands led to finding more items to trade without difficulty. This led to the rise of the merchant class. Trade also allowed the Romans to get much needed food for their growing population.

Answer 2

Originally there was a distinction between patricians and plebeians. The