oligarchic, as they tended to become; but we have on stone a letter from a governor of Macedon to a
Peloponnesian city, of the late second century, which reveals that he has taken steps to crush social
unrest there. Polybius, who came of a distinguished political family, thought a newly slavish adherence
to Rome deplorable, but realized that dignified independence was only possible within narrow limits. He
believed, however, that in spite of recent abuses and the new harshness Rome had given the Greek cities
great benefits, and that the revolts of 148 were insane folly (these were again partly inspired by the poor,
who would be less aware than the upper classes that Rome was too strong to resist).
Inscription Recording A Letter From The Roman Governor Of Macedonia. Addressed to the magistrates
and council of the Achaean city of Dyme, the letter records measures taken by the proconsul Q. Fabius