What could the USA learn from the Roman Empire?

A myriad of similarities between Ancient Rome and the modern United States exist. Of course, there are also a few important differences. The Roman empire lasted 503 years, the United States has been around for 223 years while the US as an empire is debatably around 100 years old. See below the list of similarities and differences between the United States and the Roman Republic and Empire:

Similarities

• Rome had its roots in an oligarchic republic, just as the United States did. Just a few powerful men were in positions of real political power.
• Earlier on more power was given to the Senate, and the Constitutions of both Rome and the US set forth separation of power and checks and balances.
• Both possess a large area of resource-rich land, with an adequate supply of labor.
• [In Progress]

Differences

• Prevalence of the hierarchical caste system pervading all aspects of life, such as one caste (class) should not marry a lower caste, engage in certain professions, etc.
• Rome had to contend with a variety of border wars, while the US enjoys being the supreme power on the North American continent and instead deals with matters overseas.
• Life in the Roman Republic and Empire revolved around the city of Rome, while the US boasts a variety of cities that can be considered important.
• Senators must be rich, possessing more than 100 kg of gold coins, or 300,000 Denari. In terms of purchasing power of bread, this would equate to $6,300,000 in USD. Keep in mind, however, that bread required more man-hours of labor during that time. (Denarius)
• [in progress]

Resources

“Denarius.” Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Web. 13 Dec. 2009. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denarius>.

“Caste.” Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Web. 13 Dec. 2009. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caste>.

“Roman Empire.” Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Web. 13 Dec. 2009. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire>.

“Roman Republic.” Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Web. 13 Dec. 2009. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Republic>.