What Really Happened in the Roman Republic

Problem 1: The Romans never permanently solved this problem. At various times, they tried land reform (giving land to poor Romans), freeing the slaves (they would then conquer another territory and get more slaves), and price controls. They even had a welfare program. Nothing worked for long.

Problem 2: This problem was not solved while the Republic existed. The emperor's solved this problem by not allowing tax collectors to make a profit. The emperor's taxed the rich and merchant classes, while giving to the poorer Romans.

Problem 3: This problem was not solved while the Republic existed. When the Empire began, voting became unimportant and soon vanished.

Problem 4: This problem was not solved under the Republic. When the Empire began, the emperors banned private armies, and incorporated these armies into the legion. A police force was created to stop crime. Rome's streets became much safer, but never safe enough to travel alone.

Debrief Questions:

  • Based on the workings of the Roman Republic and the problems that emerged, what conclusions can you draw about the effectiveness of the republic?
  • Do you think the failure to solve problems of the Republic were because of the government system of the republic? Why or why not?
  • What improvements could be made to the Roman Republic?
  • Would an empire (having one ruer) be a better political framework for Ancient Rome? Why or why not?