"The British reduced the cost of their <span>goods" is how they achieved this since they were able to export more, meaning they could afford to reduce prices and stay competitive. </span>
So we know when certain things in history took place. Its hard somtimes to remember/memorize all the dates, but timelines do help.
Hope this helps :D
The more allies Rome had the more territory it could have under its control. Also the other places bring new cultures into Rome so that it could grow in that aspect as well.