Following on from the author’s previous study La Elaboracion del Circulo Productivo Romano como Imperio Mediterraneo (348-218 AC), this volume presents an interpretation of the control, volume and mechanisms of trade and commerce and its significance in the political history of Rome and the Mediterranean. He examines the character of early market systems in the 4th century and the nature of trade alongside the political climate which was entering a period of ideological and conceptual change. The development of new political and social ideologies, a new state model, new codes of behaviour and the beginnings of a defined class system in Rome, are all discussed. Spanish text.