The Roman Republic

Early Roman History and Mythology

100

What were the Twelve Tables, and why were they important?

Rome's first code of laws, adopted in 450 B.C. They ensured everyone knew the laws, and no one could dispute or change them.

200

Who was Aeneas, and what is he known for?

A mythical Greek warrior who led the Trojans in the Trojan War - An ancestor of Romulus and Remis (the founders of Rome)

300

Where did Aeneas flee after the Trojan War?

Italy

400

Who were the Etruscans, and how did they influence Rome?

The first rulers of the Roman Republic who laid the foundation for Roman civilization. They influenced Rome’s language, dress, religion, and architecture.

500

What was the Forum used for in ancient Rome?

A meeting place for public discussion.

Influences on Roman Culture and Society

100

What does the term "veto" mean, and who had this power in the Roman Republic?

"Veto" means to reject a law. Consuls had the power to veto each other.

200

How did the Greeks (Athenians) influence Roman voting practices?

The Athenians introduced the concept of citizen participation in governance, which inspired the Romans to create a system where citizens could vote for representatives in assemblies.

300

Name three ways the Etruscans influenced Roman culture.

They drained marshes, built temples, expanded the Forum, and influenced Rome's alphabet, numerals, dress, and religion.

400

Who was Cincinnatus, and why is did his legend influence Roman history?

Cincinnatus was a Roman statesman and farmer who became a symbol of civic virtue. He is remembered for being appointed dictator during a military crisis. After successfully leading the Roman army to victory, he voluntarily relinquished his power and returned to his farm, exemplifying humility, selflessness, and devotion to the Republic.

500

What groups could vote in the Roman Republic? AND what groups could NOT vote?

Inspired by Athens, voting rights were initially limited to free male citizens, but over time, they expanded to include more classes of society.

 Groups who could not vote were enslaved people, women, and the poor.

Rome Rises

100

Name the 3 major eras that Roman history is divided into.

The Roman Kings, the Roman Republic, and the Roman Empire Era

200

Define Republic

A system of government limited by rule of law rather than mob rule.

300

What type of Democracy was the Roman Republic?

Representative Democracy

400

What was the Council of Plebs?

An assembly made up of the lower-class landowners (Plebeians).

500

What is the separation of powers? Why is it important?

Dividing power among several branches of government, so one branch doesn't have too much power, and other branches can check eachother.

Social Classes of Rome

100

This is the name given to the wealthy land-owning elite in Roman society

Patricians

200

These are the class of Roman commoners, usually farmers, merchants, artisans, and traders.

Plebians

300

How did the Plebeians protest their lack of political power?

They walked out of Rome and threatened to make their own city. It worked! The Senate then created the Assembly.

400

Which Roman class held the most power and was most involved in government.

Patricians.

500

In order for males to be citizens, what requirements did they need to fulfill?

1. Pay taxes 2. Compulsory service in the Roman military

Roman Politics

100

What was the name of the Legislative arm of the Roman government? What were their responsibilities? How many of them were there at any given time and how long did they serve?

The Roman Senate. They managed foreign policy, proposed and recommended laws, approved treaties, appointed provincial governors, elected consuls, chose temporary dictators. There were 300 senators, life terms.

200

Why did the Roman senate have a system to install a dictator? What was the maximum time that a dictator was allowed to serve?

To take control of the government in a crisis or emergency. They were only able to serve for six months.

300

These were the leaders of the executive arm of the Roman government. How many were there? What was their job?

Consuls. Two consuls served at once. They made sure laws were being faithfully executed and worked with the senate to approve legislation.

400

What did the Plebeians want during the Conflict of the Orders?

Political equality with the Patricians.

500

What was the role of a consul in the Roman Republic?

One of two magistrates holding supreme civil and military authority.