Historians, military strategists, political scientists and economists are all greatly interested in the mechanisms that led to the rise of the roman empire. the roman empire, known for sustained military and political domination of many areas of europe, north africa, and the near east, has captured the interests of many analysts who have developed three possible reasons for the rise of and domination of the roman empire.
Firstly, the roman army was superior to all neighboring armies. despite having a very small domestic population, rome was able to successfully develop the world’s first professional army. the army was well-trained, well-disciplined, and well-equipped. when necessary, the army was supplemented with mercenaries to fill the ranks. additionally, rome had a mighty navy which could swiftly and efficiently deploy troops, increasing the area which rome could effectively control. this superior military helped rome defeat competing armies and help maintain the empire’s stability with aggressive force.
A second factor that contributed to the rise of the roman empire was the unchallenged power of the emperor. roman emperors possessed enormous power over the courts and government as well as the military and regular citizens. in effect, the emperor was just short of an infallible deity. by holding these powers, the emperor could prosecute anyone who interfered with the performance of his duties. because of this, detractors and dissidents were unlikely to object to the actions of the emperor. this afforded the empire with solidarity and helped it rise to regional dominance.
Another feature of the roman empire was high taxes. wealth coming from taxes helped the roman government continue military campaigns and feed army camps. additionally, public works projects like roads and other infrastructure were completed with money taxed from individuals. this income in turn helped stimulate the economy, promoting a prosperous and rich environment for trade.
综合写作音频：
This week, we’ll look at how well students transition to university. Many recent high school graduates have taken a gap year—a yearlong break after graduation—before studying at a university. During a gap year, students may get jobs, travel, or simply relax and think about their future. Some students say their gap year was beneficial, while others regret having taken one. In your opinion, does taking a gap year create more advantages or disadvantages for students? Why?
Andrew
The gap year would be a good opportunity for students to reflect on their education goals and confirm their plans for university. At least it would give someone time to investigate different fields and get a better sense of what it means to be in business, to work in an office, or to work with their hands, etc.
Claire
Because university can be expensive, students should not take a gap year. Tuition, the cost of books, and living expenses rise every year. The money a student might save during a gap year might not be enough to cover the rise in prices when they enter university a year later.
答案请付费后查阅：
