My empire started in Rome the great city of which much of our society has derived its beginnings. I chose this starting point because of its central location and its access to the ocean making sea travel and advancement much easier. When it came time to develop any part of the empire I alternated a focus on science, economy, and culture because looking at other successful empires the did not focus on only one aspect of the empire, and if they did it often led to negelct on other parts making it easier for it to crumble from within, starting with the economy. Other empires have been amicable towards our empire and therefore no wars have broken out to destroy our advancements. War also is a catalyst for decline in that all the resources are used for defense or for war like purposes allowing for everything else to fall into disarray.
I have the far superior empire making life so far rather easy. Also with having the most advanced nation by keeping the balance of economy, culture, military and science, our technology is far superior since we have circumnavigated the world and have traded our technology with other surrounding nations. The proximity in which these empires exisit is a large concern because it has forced everyone to advance as quickly as possible and without a regard for the greater populus.
Looking at the game as a reflection of history it is apparent that peaceful nations have been able to develop quitely and produce great amounts advancements. Unfortunately, I am painfully aware that even through great advancements it is necessary for a war to improve further.