Chapter 20 Vocabulary

In ancient Rome, society was divided between the (a)   , who were wealthy landowners with power and influence, and the (b)   , who were everyday people like farmers and merchants. These two groups were able to voice their opinions through a (c)   , where they elected leaders to speak for them in government. Roman leaders worked under the (d)   , meaning everyone, regardless of their position, was expected to obey the law.

• patricians
• plebeians
• representative democracy
• rule of law

The Roman government was a ​ (a)   , where citizens had the power to make decisions through elected officials. In this system, there was a strong emphasis on ​ (b)   responsibility, as citizens were expected to take part in government. The Roman system of government included a ​ (c)   system, where each branch could limit the powers of the others to make sure no one had too much control.

• republic
• civic
• checks and balances

The ​ (a)   branch was responsible for enforcing the laws, while the ​ (b)   branch interpreted them to ensure justice. Meanwhile, the ​ (c)   branch worked on making the laws. At public events, Roman men would wear a ​ (d)   , a symbol of their status and formality.

• executive
• judicial
• legislative
• toga

What is a "representative democracy"?

• A system where people rule directly without representatives

• A system where elected officials represent the people in government

• A system where only one person holds power

• A system where everyone must be involved in making laws

What does the "rule of law" mean?

• Some people are above the law

• The law applies only to certain groups

• Everyone must obey the law, regardless of status

• The law only applies to leaders

Which branch of government is responsible for interpreting laws?

• Executive branch
• Legislative branch
• Administrative branch
• Judicial branch

What does "checks and balances" refer to in government?

• A system where branches of government have separate powers to check each other

• A rule where only one branch makes all the decisions

• A way of controlling the economy

• A system for making laws only