Agriculture. Agricultural production formed the foundation of the entire Roman economy. Most ancient historians even believe that agriculture all but eclipsed other economic activity. Certainly Roman tradition favored such a view. The most respectable wealth was was based on property and derived from farming. On the other hand, the Romans knew very well that farming did not generate the largest fortunes. Still, agriculture provided an established, stable, and profitable economic base.

Polyculture. Three agricultural products dominated trade and have been labeled the "Mediterranean Triad": grain, wine, and olive oil. The demand for grain was constant and estate owners considered it a dependable investment. Grapevines represented a riskier market, but with a higher potential return. More importantly, grapevines and olive trees have different soil requirements and harvest times from grains, so farmers could grow all three different crops...