When armies take over

While the military is running Zimbabwe, there is no hope of anything resembling a functioning democracy replacing the tyrant Robert Mugabe after 37 years. But at least there is one small mercy — the army in Zimbabwe appears to be united.

The end for the Roman republic was in sight when wealthy individuals with powerful backing raised private armies to impose their will upon the state.

Sulla was the first person to attack Rome in this way in 87 bc and then make himself dictator in 83...