great nation world decline wealthy oligarchy money land power leave masse starve struggle weight oppressive debt bitter partisan feud polar opposite ndash liberal conservative ndash find room compromise government conduct dignity restraint dangerous game brinksmanship obstructionism foundation republic undermine demagogue dictator civil unrest seize power opponent marginalize disappear murder give veneer legitimacy retroactively result collapse old order establishment new totalitarian regime populace mercy madman idiot venal vaingloriouswe talk course roman republic optimate et populare political game player player fight primacy dominance ideology populare quotpopulistsquot pursue liberal egalitarian agenda seek better life poor measure land redistribution debt relief welfare program optimate quotbest menquot aim thwart progress maintain traditional right privilege wealthy elite player seek win election pass law prevent opponent tool disposal build alliance influential senator buy loyalty incite mob violence proscription statesanctione murdercentral game political action cost political accomplish anger incite opposition supporter action cede political opponent create dynamic tension player balance pursuit goal backlash s corner law pass subtle notsosubtle effect people rome senate building erode support overall platform careful balancing act vicious teetertotter knifefight tightrope

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