Ancient Rome Key Terms

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Republic

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A form of government in which power is held by the people and their elected representatives.

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Plebeian

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A commoner in ancient Rome.

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Patrician

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A member of the noble families who controlled all power in the early years of the Roman Republic.

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Etruscans

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An ancient civilization of Italy who influenced the early development of Rome.

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Latins

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An Italic tribe in ancient central Italy, from whom the Romans originated.

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The Punic Wars

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A series of three wars fought between Rome and Carthage from 264 BC to 146 BC.

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Julius Caesar

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A Roman general and statesman who played a critical role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic.

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Augustus

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The first emperor of Rome and the adopted son of Julius Caesar.

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Census

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An official count or survey of a population, typically recording various details of individuals.

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Veto

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The power to unilaterally stop an official action, especially the enactment of legislation.