In 240 before J-C the Corsicans oppose to the Romans, whereas they had had to support Phocéens during three centuries. The Roman occupation, will be the place of innumerable rebellions, which will last nearly one century. Because of his situation, Corsica will obtain Romans an external protection, the development of agriculture, an amplification of trade, but will undergo Romaine cupidity.

The Middle Ages

VIème and VIIème century: Byzance is main of Corsica, after having driven out the Vandals into 533 thanks to the generals Byzantine Bélisaire. But King Tolila then king of Ostrogoths, takes again successively Naples into 543 then Rome and Corsica into 548-549. This Byzantine occupation will last two centuries without leaving traces on the island.

In IXème century, the Byzantines give up the island of Corsica, and Gregoire VII (Pope of 1073 to 1085) increases his influence on the island. Évêché of Pisa has Corsica until 1114 then Pisa takes possession of the island and applies a liberal administrative policy to it. This policy will see the return of the expatriates, and the construction of many religious monuments, the island seems to be prosperous. The richest areas are particularly the Corsica Cape and Balagne.

Genoa small territory, wishes to have two ports (Corsica offers this possibility to him), and will try to have them during XIIème century. In 1195, Genoa seizes Bonifacio, and in 1272 the town of Calvi is built. In second half of XIIIème century, Genoa has the control of Corsica, and has then two fortresses, 3 évêchés out of six what exists, and the richest areas of the island.

In 1284, at the time of the naval Battle of Meloria, Genoa overrides Pisa and 4 years later Corsica releases. The island then becomes Génoise for six hundred years.

Corsica resistance against Genoa will culminate at the time of the popular revolt of 1347.