Ancient Rome and the Roman Republic

patricians

wealthy and powerful Roman noblemen who controlled all power in the early years of the Roman Republic

plebeians

the common people of Rome, such as farmers, traders, and craftworkers

empire

a large group of states or countries under a single supreme authority

revolt

a violent uprising against a ruler

assembly

Roman branch of government that passed all legislation on the basis of direct democracy.

constitution

a body of fundamental principles according to which a state is acknowledged to be governed.

consul

one or two supreme heads of state during the Roman Republic that were elected each year

Senate

the lawmaking body and most powerful branch in ancient Rome's Republic.

tribunes

elected leaders who represented the interests of the plebeians. One of the branches of the Roman Republic government.

Julius Caesar

a Roman general and statesman who played a critical role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire

Twelve Tables

Rome's first code of laws; adopted in 450 B.C.

Pax Romana

A period of peace and prosperity throughout the Roman Empire, lasting from 27 B.C. to A.D. 180.

Colosseum

A large stadium in ancient Rome where athletic events took place

Constantine the Great

First Christian emperor of Rome

Christianity

A monotheistic system of beliefs based on the teachings of Jesus

Aqueducts

Artificial channels for transporting water created in Rome

Roman Forum

An area for people to gather to hear speeches, shop, worship at temples, and socialize