▼ The 3rd century A.D. was undoubtedly a period of significant change for the Romans, transitioning from the Principate to the Dominate of the later empire. Typified by constant civil wars, invasions, and an absence in the security that the Romans had once enjoyed, the 3rd century is considered to be the nadir of classical antiquity. While this has been accepted to be the case for the northern empire, upon closer inspection the provinces of North Africa display an economic stability not found elsewhere. Comparing the Imperial heartland of Italy and the city of Rome to North Africa, economic stability and even growth is found in the southern Mediterranean. This is achieved through an examination of interdisciplinary approaches, including archaeology, papyrology, numismatics, and looking at the historical record. North Africa’s providence appears to have been dependant on its production of staple commodities such as grain and olive oil. These foodstuffs were a necessary part of the annona, Rome’s public dole program, which was extended by the Emperor Aurelian to include pork and olive oil in addition to grain during the 270s A.D. Advisors/Committee Members: Lancaster, Lynne.