Neon Liberalism The Sulla Fantasy
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Mar 25, 2025 In a fascinating discussion, Bret Devereaux, an ancient and military historian, explores the fall of the Roman Republic and the curious admiration Elon Musk seems to hold for the dictator Sulla. They contrast Sulla's violent rise to power with modern-day governance, dissecting how historical figures shape today’s political landscapes. Devereaux highlights Sulla's reforms, critiquing their long-term effects on stability, and emphasizes the legacies of legitimacy in governance as crucial lessons for contemporary leaders.
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Sulla's Violent Rise and Failure
- Sulla violently seized control of Rome twice and radically altered its constitution, but his reforms failed to restore stability.
- He was ruthless, had no defenders in ancient sources, and is seen as a destructive, reactionary figure.
Musk's Misguided Roman Fascination
- Elon Musk's admiration for Sulla reflects a shallow understanding of Roman history and ignores Sulla's brutal legacy.
- Musk misinterprets Roman events, confusing key figures and contexts.
Misdiagnosed Problems in Rome
- The Roman Republic destabilized partly because rapid population growth and military demands created social and economic pressures.
- The Gracchi brothers' land reforms misdiagnosed the issues, focusing on wealth distribution rather than population and military recruitment dynamics.