Volume IX of the second edition of The Cambridge Ancient History has for its main theme the process commonly known as the "Fall of the Roman Republic." Chapters 1-12 supply a narrative of the period from 133 B.C. to the death of Cicero in 43 B.C., with a prelude analyzing the situation and problems of the Republic from the turning-point year 146 B.C. Chapters 13-19 offer analysis of aspects of Roman society, institutions and ideas during the period.

"The new CAH IX is a welcome achievement, a readable and reliable political narrative with significant thematic contributions that mark major progress in sophistication and incisiveness of thought."