Patrocinium Orbis Terrae: Principles of Roman Foreign Relations to the Fall of Carthage

This dissertation examines the role of traditional principles and values in Roman foreign relations during the period from the end of the Second Punic War to the fall of Carthage. It offers a new perspective by focusing on aspects which have not been adequately connected, and presents a counterpoint to realist theoretical approaches to early Roman imperialism. The principles of Roman foreign relations can be traced back to the institution of the fetial priests, whose rituals and religious values were the springboard for these principles, including the Roman concept of “just war.” These ideals developed to become part of a larger set of norms concerning Roman foreign relations, including both justifications for war and rules about its proper conduct. The Senate enforced this set of rules against Roman officials who violated them by abusing and extorting foreign peoples. The victims came from across the Mediterranean world, and were drawn from both allies and enemies. Their complaints to the Senate were heard, and they were routinely compensated for their injuries. Over time, the formalization of these norms led to the establishment of a permanent court at Rome for cases of extortion. In its relations with Carthage after the Second Punic War, especially when mediating disputes between Carthage and the Numidian king, Massinissa, Rome still attempted to adhere to the values and norms which had guided its behavior towards foreign people. However, the pressures of Rome’s expanding role in the Mediterranean eventually caused the relationship to break down. Nonetheless, Rome made a point of following the letter, if not the spirit, of its own rules, and represented even the total destruction of Carthage as conforming to the requirements of just war. While the character of Roman imperialism may have changed, the traditional values were maintained in the Late Republic through the works of Roman historians and the extortion court. This dissertation demonstrates the need for recognition of the role that traditional Roman principles played in Roman imperial expansion and for integrating them into analysis of this crucial period.Doctor of Philosoph

An anterior approach for decompression of the suprascapular nerve

✓ In an effort to increase the beneficial results from decompressive surgery for suprascapular nerve entrapment, an anterior approach has been developed which minimizes manipulation of the suprascapular nerve and maximizes visualization while the decompression is being carried out. The technique and results in three patients are described.</jats:p