The Spread of Christianity and The Roman Republic

These flashcards cover key concepts about the spread of Christianity and the Roman Republic, including government structure, social classes, important leaders, daily life, achievements, and historical significance.

What was the structure of the Roman Republic?

A representative government where citizens elected officials.

What were the two elected leaders in the Roman Republic called?

Consuls.

How long did consuls serve in the Roman Republic?

1 year.

What body advised the consuls and controlled finances in the Roman Republic?

The Senate.

How many members were typically in the Senate?

300 members.

What were assemblies in the Roman Republic?

Groups of citizens who voted on laws and elected magistrates.

Who enforced laws and managed public affairs in the Roman Republic?

Magistrates.

What was the purpose of checks and balances in the Roman Republic?

To prevent one branch from gaining too much power.

What were the Twelve Tables?

The first written Roman laws ensuring legal transparency.

Who is known as the founder of the Roman Republic?

Lucius Junius Brutus.

What was Cincinnatus known for?

Being a model of civic virtue who served briefly as dictator.

Who challenged the structure of the Roman Republic and led to its end?

Julius Caesar.

What were the three main social classes in the Roman Republic?

Patricians, Plebeians, and Slaves.

What were Patricians?

Wealthy landowners and aristocrats who controlled government.

What are Plebeians?

Commoners, including farmers, artisans, and merchants.

What was the role of women in Roman family life?

Managed households but had limited rights.

What was the Paterfamilias?

The oldest male head of the family holding legal authority.

What type of education did boys receive in the Roman Republic?

Education focused on rhetoric and military skills.

What type of lifestyles did Patricians enjoy?

They lived in large villas and enjoyed banquets.

What did Plebeians typically consume?

Simple meals like bread and olives.

What major public entertainments were common in the Roman Republic?

Gladiator games, theater, and public baths.

What religious practice was common in the Roman Republic?

Polytheism, worshiping gods such as Jupiter and Mars.

What major engineering achievement improved communication in the Roman Republic?

Roads.

What was the purpose of aqueducts in Roman cities?

To carry water for public health and urban growth.

What was the significance of the Latin language in the Roman Republic?

It became the basis for the Romance languages.

How did the Republic expand its economy?

Through the expansion of trade networks across the Mediterranean.

What were the key differences between Patricians and Plebeians?

Patricians were wealthy and controlled government; Plebeians were commoners who gained rights.