What were the most significant results of Rome's expansion during the era of the Republic?Rome

The expansion of Roman territory during the era of the
Republic made Rome a huge power and allowed it to take control of vast areas of land
surrounding the Mediterranean.  However, the expansion also led to stresses that
destroyed the Republic and helped turn it into an
empire.

During the era of the Republic, Rome came to
dominate its area of the world.  It defeated its major rivals, most notably Carthage. 
It also took control of areas as far as Syria in the east and what is now France in the
west.  This made Rome the greatest power of its time.

This
expansion, however, helped lead to the fall of the Republic.  The stresses of war made
it very difficult for the Senate to effectively rule.  This was exacerbated by the fact
that the Senate was now required to rule a much greater amount of
territory.

In these ways, the expansion contributed to the
greatness and power of Rome, but it also helped lead to the collapse of the
Republic.