Velleius Paterculus' History of Rome, much like Dio Cassius' own version follows the empire's rise to power, turbulent rule, and preservation up to the time of the author's writing. Providing his own perspective, however, Paterculus draws upon more global concerns of Rome's dominion. He discusses the various conquests, colonies, intrigues, and cultural shifts of the empire during its ascension. Additionally, writing from the perilous position of publicity, he refrains largely from expressing any criticism of the state, while subtly inserting his observations of the cause and effects of various men of power's decisions throughout history. He concludes with prayers for the preservation and blessing of the current emperor, Tiberius.
Paterculus views the history of Rome in relation to the history of the world at the time. He is concerned with international relations, regardless of whether the Roman state in question shares those concerns. In his account, Paterculus traces a trend of expansion, conquest, and subversion all the way to the reign of Tiberius. Because of his delicate political position, he refrains from outright comment upon these attributes, but he lays information out in a manner which hints at malfeasance and greed. For example, he outlines Verus' accumulation of wealth during his various occupations of foreign lands, in contrast to the increasing poverty of those regions under his leadership.
Because so few records as extensive as Paterculus' account exist, his writing has proven extremely helpful to historian and sociologists for generations. He reveals details which are otherwise omitted from public record or authors who are more influenced by their loyalty to the state. While remaining just within the boundaries of acceptable print, Paterculus declines no commentary on vice or ruin. He is interested in analyzing the success or failure of specific military tactics, leaders, political climates, etc. Although his writing was bold at the time, it has become essential to the contemporary understanding of Roman history.
