The Early History of Rome

Livy's 'The Early History of Rome' covers Books 1-5 of his 'Ab Urbe Condita', detailing the legendary origins with Aeneas, Romulus and Remus, the seven kings, the founding of the Republic after Tarquin's expulsion, internal struggles like the Conflict of the Orders and Decemvirate, and wars against neighbors including Veii and the Gauls' sack in 390 BC. It emphasizes themes of competent governance, resistance to monarchy, plebeian-patrician tensions, and exemplary figures like Cincinnatus and Camillus, blending myth, history, and moral lessons.