Vae Victis: The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire in 9 Chapters

by Jacob F. Field

For over five centuries, the Roman Empire ruled much of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. It produced some of history's greatest orators and statesmen, as well as some of its most debauched and corrupt tyrants. Its artistic and archaeological contribution to the world is overshadowed only by its propensity for bloodshed and enslavement of its enemies. And its legacy remains with us today, whether it be culturally, religiously, socially or politically.

In A Very Brief History of the Roman Empire, acclaimed historian Jacob F. Field tells the entire story of Imperial Rome, from its initial expansion across mainland Italy to its monumental collapse. This fascinating and entertaining book takes the reader on a journey, beginning with Julius Caesar first laying the foundations for the Empire right up to the collapse of Rome's power as it became overthrown by invading Germanic tribes. This book tells the stories of the Empires greatest triumphs and most catastrophic disasters, the main figures - the athletes, plutocrats, mercenaries, slaves and generals - within, and what it was like to live under the Romans. And it will explore the men who wielded ultimate power in Rome and who shaped it into a historic the emperors.

This is the entire history of the Roman Empire in one book.

304 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication April 28, 2026

About the author

Jacob F. Field is a historian and writer. He grew up in South London, completed his undergraduate degree in History at the University of Oxford, and then moved to Newcastle University for his PhD. He completed his doctoral thesis on the Great Fire of London in 2008, and has worked as a research associate at the University of Cambridge since then. Jacob has contributed to books including 1001 Historical Sites and 1001 Battles That Changed The Course Of History and published articles in journals including Economic History Review, London Journal and Urban History.