[swain_forkbeard]

I think the Roman Republic faltered in the first century BC. At that time, the Roman legions were almost 100% Italian.

[Greg F]

The Republic did end with Caeser and really before when the mob and demagogues took power, but the Senators continued to appeal to Republican traditions even after Emperors siezed contol. They did this with greater and lesser effect depending on the strength of the particular Emperor. We will see the same in the USA once we lose our freedoms. The tradition of freedom and limited government will continue to be remembered and discussed, and occassionally influence the government, until the civilization falls. That said, you are right, I think, that the mercenary armies and foreign armies for Rome came after the Republic fell.