If this is true, John is telling us something about when this book was written. It is the opinion of this author and most of our readers that the seven headed beast represents the Roman Empire. It signifies the Roman Empire in the same way Uncle Sam and the Big Bear symbolize the United States and Russia respectfully. If the sea beast symbolizes the Roman Empire, one would think the case closed. The task is not easy, however.
Problems do exist.
The first ten Roman Emperors were Julius Caesar, Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, Nero, Galba, Otho, Vitellius and Vespasian. Many scholars and historians question whether Julius Caesar was the first Emperor of Rome. Even though he was the father of the Roman Empire and ruled it with all of the powers of a king, he did not wear the title and crown. Scholars and historians also question including Galba, Otho, and Vitellius. These never exercised authority over the empire nor were they recognized by the provinces as Emperors.