Which Roman historian is known for documenting early Roman history with focus on moral lessons?

The historian known for documenting early Roman history with a focus on moral lessons is Livy. His work, primarily composed in the form of "Ab Urbe Condita" (From the Founding of the City), offers a comprehensive narrative of Rome's history from its legendary foundation through the early Republic. Livy's writing emphasizes moral values and virtues, showcasing the exemplary behaviors and the moral decline of the Roman people over time. This moralistic angle serves his purpose of educating his contemporaries on the importance of virtuous living in the face of challenges.

Sallust, while significant, is more focused on political history and the moral decay of the Roman state during the late Republic. His style and focus differ from Livy's overarching historical narrative. Florus, on the other hand, is known for condensing Roman history and presenting it in a more poetic manner, which does not emphasize moral teachings as central to the historical narrative. Cassius Dio provides a more chronological account and integrates Greek history, but lacks the pronounced moral lessons that characterize Livy's writings. Thus, Livy stands out for his unique approach to early Roman history through a moral lens.