Ancient Rome Part I Vocabulary

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Etruscans

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Most powerful people in central Italy when Rome was founded. Skilled artists and builders. Romans developed their alphabet, religion, and architecture from them.

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Romulus & Remus

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Twin brothers who supposedly founded Rome. Myth.

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Republic

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A type of government in which people elect the leaders who govern them. Broken into 3 parts: Senate, Assembly, Magistrate.

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Dictator

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A leader with complete control or absolute power. In Ancient Rome, a dictator served for a maximum of 6 months.

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Plebeians

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Common people; Rome’s lower class who rebelled when they weren’t being listened to. Artisans, laborers, farmers.

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Patricians

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Powerful and wealthy nobles; Rome’s upper class citizens who ran the government. Held the highest positions in the republic.

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Twelve Tables

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Roman law code. Laws relating to family relations, property, inheritance, and other important issues.

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Consul

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One of two top officials in Rome with the most power. Elected upper class citizens. Leaders that created laws & led army. Headed Rome’s executive branch.

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Roman Senate

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Council of powerful and wealthy people who advised city leaders. Made up of 300 patricians.

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Forum

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Public meeting place in Rome. Open area. Center for Rome’s government, religion, and economy.