two most powerful elected officials

council of wealthy and powerful Romans that advised officials

the largest group has the power to decide government actions

to prohibit an official action (means I forbid)

methods of balancing power

groups of up to 6,000 soldiers

a series of wars between Rome and Carthage

brilliant Carthaginian general who attacked the city of Rome

government in which people elect leaders to govern them

ruler with almost absolute power, elected during time of war

famous dictator who defeated a powerful enemy then resigned his powers

common people of Rome

powerful nobles of Rome