Introduction to Roman Republican Government: From the Founding of Rome in c. 753 to 509 B.C., Rome was a monarchy, ruled by kings. In 509 B.C., the Romans expelled their Etruscan kings and established the Republic. Having witnessed the problems of monarchy on their own land, and aristocracy and democracy among the Greeks, the Romans opted for a mixed form of government, with three branches of government.
Consuls - Monarchical Branch of Roman Government:
Two magistrates or consuls with supreme civil and military authority in Republican Rome. They held office for one year, then became senators for life. Each consul could veto the other, they led the army, served as judges, and had religious duties.
Two magistrates or consuls with supreme civil and military authority in Republican Rome. They held office for one year, then became senators for life. Each consul could veto the other, they led the army, served as judges, and had religious duties.
Senate - Aristocratic Branch of Roman Government:
Senate (senatus = council of elders) was the advisory branch of the Roman government, initially composed of about 300 citizens who served for life. The ranks of the Senate were drawn from ex-consuls and other officers who served for life.
Senate (senatus = council of elders) was the advisory branch of the Roman government, initially composed of about 300 citizens who served for life. The ranks of the Senate were drawn from ex-consuls and other officers who served for life.
Assembly - Democratic Branch of Roman Government:
The Assembly of Centuries (comitia centuriata), which was composed of all members of the army, elected consuls annually. The Assembly of Tribes (comitia tributa), which contained all citizens, approved or rejected laws and decided issues of war and peace.
The Assembly of Centuries (comitia centuriata), which was composed of all members of the army, elected consuls annually. The Assembly of Tribes (comitia tributa), which contained all citizens, approved or rejected laws and decided issues of war and peace.
