How did Roman rule affect Sardinia’s grain production and taxes?

Under Roman rule, Sardinia was treated as a conquered territory, which fundamentally altered its economic obligations to the state. Following the Roman conquest, the island’s inhabitants were stripped of free city status and were legally required to pay a sizable tithe in grain to Rome.1

This taxation system integrated the island into the broader Roman economy, where it served as a vital granary for the empire. Along with regions like Egypt, Sicily, and Gaul, Sardinia was relied upon to supply cereals to Italy to supplement domestic production. Despite the island's role in supporting the Roman food supply, the administration of Sardinia remained difficult for the Romans, characterized by frequent political reorganizations and persistent internal unrest.12