Roman Republic Structure and History

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to the structure and history of the Roman Republic.

Roman Republic

Established in 509 BCE, replacing the monarchy with elected consuls.

Consuls

Two elected officials with the highest authority in the Republic, serving one-year terms.

Cursus Honorum

The sequential order of public offices held by aspiring politicians in the Roman Republic.

SPQR

'Senate and People of Rome', the motto representing the government of the Roman Republic.

Dictator

An appointed official with total imperium for a limited time, used in crises; Cincinnatus was a model dictator.

Plebiscite

Legislation passed by the Council of the Plebs, affecting all citizens after the Lex Hortensia.

The Twelve Tables

An early legal code established around 450 BCE aimed at ensuring equality under the law.

Plebeians

Common citizens of Rome who initially had limited power in political, religious, and legal systems.

Patricians

The elite class in Rome, holding significant privileges including control over religious colleges and magistracies.

Struggle of the Orders

A series of political conflicts between patricians and plebeians from 497 to 287 BCE, resulting in reform.

Latifundia

Large estates in ancient Rome that emerged from territorial expansion, leading to economic issues.

Optimates

The senatorial elite in the Roman Republic, often resistant to reforms favoring the populace.

Populares

Political leaders advocating for the rights and interests of the common people in the Roman Republic.

Council of the Plebs

A voting assembly established to allow plebeians a voice in legislation through the tribune.

Tribune of the Plebs

An elected office for plebeians that could veto Senate decisions and advocate for plebeian interests.