Roman Republic Government
Rome's Early Republic
Rome had a form of government called a republic
A republic is supposed to protect the rights of regular citizens (to prevent abuses from the rich and powerful)
However, not all was equal
Roman society had two groups: the wealthyt Patricians and the Plebeians (regular people, like farmers and craftspeople)
Although the Plebeians made up most of Rome’s population, they were very underrepresented in the government
Plebeians Protest
The Plebeians were enraged
They wanted a say in Rome’s governing
They went on strike and shut down Roman shops and businesses
They departed their city and went on to establish their own government
The Patricians grew worried since they were losing money, so they decided they’d share their power with the Plebeians
The Plebeians eventually had the ability to choose their own representatives
These elected officials were known as tribunes
They worked to defend the rights of regular people
The Twelve Tables
One further demand was made by the Plebeians
Rome’s rules were not recorded, therefore the Patricians frequently interpreted them to favor their rich allies
The Plebeians retaliated by insisting that these laws be clearly visible to the public
As a result, the laws became known as The Twelve Tables
They were written (carved onto bronze tablets) and posted throughout the city
Some of the laws that were used are some of our current laws today
The Three Branches of Government
Rome had three branches of government (like ours today): Executive, Legislative, and Judicial
The Executive Branch led Rome's government and the military
The Legislative Branch was in charge of making laws
The Judicial Branch made sure that the laws were followed
The Romans made sure that none of these three branches became corrupt, so they put checks and balances in place
Kings were replaced with Consuls (leaders for a year)
The Senate was part of the Legislative Branch (they advised the Consuls)
Orators, Debates, and Dictators
The Assemblies represented the Plebeians
Debates between the Senate and the Assemblies were common
Senators would speak on issues that affected Romans in the Senate Building and in the public squares
Giving speeches was important (public speaking was very valued)
One great Roman orator (speaker) was Cicero
When Rome was in crisis, Romans appointed dictators (rulers with total power, usually abusive rulers)
Cincinnatus was one Roman dictator
Dictators were to give up their seat (power) once things got better
Kailey G.
Olive Vista STEAM Magnet Middle School Student