Introduction to the Roman Republic

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on the Roman Republic, focusing on political structure, important figures, and significant events.

Map Exam

An upcoming test focused on geography, specifically European and African countries, cities, and rivers.

Cursus Honorum

The sequential order of public offices held by aspiring politicians in Rome.

Punic Wars

A series of conflicts between Rome and Carthage, leading to Rome's dominance over the Mediterranean.

Emperor

The ruler of an empire, in this case, referring to Julius Caesar's later declaration of Rome as an empire.

Patricians

The aristocratic families of Rome who traditionally held power and land.

Plebeians

The common people of Rome, who had limited rights and voice in governance.

Equestrians

Wealthy citizens in Rome who gained wealth through trade instead of land ownership.

Noviles

Wealthy merchants from the plebeian class with no official role in Roman governance.

Oligarchy

A government structure dominated by a small group of wealthy individuals, in this case, merchants.

Gracchus Brothers

Tiberius and Gaius Gracchus, advocates for land reform in Rome.

Tribune

An elected official in Rome who represented the plebeians.

Unhoused Population

People in Rome without homes, often a concern for tribunes like Tiberius Gracchus.

Land Confiscation

The proposal by Tiberius Gracchus to redistribute land owned by wealthy families to the poor.

Public Enemy

A designation given to individuals who threaten the state, used against Tiberius and Gaius Gracchus.

Consul

One of the two highest elected political offices in Rome.

Sulla

A military leader who became the first in Rome to hold the title of perpetual dictator.

Pax Romana

The period of relative peace and stability across the Roman Empire.

Dictator

A leader with absolute power, often appointed during emergencies in Rome.

Cleopatra,

The last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, known for her alliances with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.

Triumvirate

A political regime dominated by three powerful individuals.

Octavian (Augustus)

Julius Caesar's adopted son, who became the first emperor of Rome.

Military Commanders

Leaders in the Roman military, including Marius, Sulla, and Pompey.

Public Festivals

Massive events thrown in Rome to gain popularity, often funded by wealthy politicians.

Actium

The location of the decisive battle between Octavian and the forces of Mark Antony and Cleopatra.

Imperial Cult

The practice of worshiping the emperor as a god in ancient Rome.

Roman Senate

The legislative body that played a crucial role in Roman governance and politics.

Carthage

The major rival of Rome during the Punic Wars, located in North Africa.

Citizenship

Status within Roman society that conferred certain legal rights, privileges, and responsibilities.

Political Reforms

Changes proposed to address social inequalities in Roman governance.

Conquest of Gaul

Julius Caesar's military campaign that significantly expanded Roman territory.

Roman Territory

The vast areas under Roman control, including parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Mediterranean.

Dynasty

A line of rulers from the same family; in this context, the Julio-Claudian dynasty of emperors.

Assassination

The targeted killing of a prominent figure, such as Julius Caesar.

Influence

The ability to affect decisions or outcomes in politics and governance, often tied to wealth and status.

Social Structure

The organization of society into different classes, primarily patricians and plebeians.

Territory Management

The administration of land and provinces under Roman control, handled by senators and officials.

Economic Pressure

The strain felt by individuals or classes due to disparities in wealth and resources.

Military Loyalty

The allegiance and dedication of soldiers to their leaders, often impacting political power.

Wealth Distribution

The allocation of economic resources, which was a significant issue during the time of the Gracchus brothers.

Legendary Status

The revered perception of figures such as Augustus, viewed as a near-divine leader.

Subordinate

A person who works under a higher authority; in this context, referring to Caesar's role under Pompey.

Legacy

What is left behind by influential figures like Julius Caesar after their death.

Civil War

Conflict between factions within a nation, such as the power struggles in Rome.

Political Alliances

Agreements between leaders for mutual benefits, such as during the first triumvirate.

Roman Identity

The shared sense of belonging and culture of the citizens of Rome.

Traditional Governance

The existing systems of rule that guide political practices, such as the cursus honorum.

Public Perception

How the actions and reputation of political figures are viewed by the populace.

Statues and Temples

Symbols of reverence for leaders, often serving both to honor the dead and reinforce the political order.

Imperial Transition

The change from a republic to an empire under Augustus, marking a critical point in Roman history.