Rome as a Republic

Front

What were the two classes in early Roman society?

Back

Patricians and plebeians.

Front

Who were the patricians?

Back

Rome's ruling class, from the oldest and most prominent families, often wealthy landowners.

Front

Who were the plebeians?

Back

The majority of Romans, less privileged, included artisans, shopkeepers, and small farm owners.

Front

What rights did Roman citizens have?

Back

The right to vote, pay taxes, and serve in the army.

Front

What was illegal between patricians and plebeians?

Back

Marriage between patricians and plebeians.

Front

What was the structure of the Roman Republic government?

Back

Three branches: the people voted on laws, elected officials ran the government and commanded the army, and the Senate controlled finances and foreign policy.

Front

Who headed the Roman government as administrators and army leaders?

Back

Two patrician consuls.

Front

What was the role of the Senate in the Roman Republic?

Back

Advisory council to elected officials, gradually acquired more power.

Front

What was the Assembly of Centuries?

Back

An electoral and legislative body that elected consuls and praetors and passed laws.

Front

What was the Council of the Plebs?

Back

A body of representatives for plebeians, elected officials called tribunes.