1. Early Rome

2. Roman Legend Rome was founded by the brothers Romulus and Remus in 753 BC. Actually began by the Etruscans  Ruled by kings  By 509 BC was a Republic  264 BC Rome was united all of Italy.

3. The Roman State The Roman Senate was the most influential position in Rome.  It was a council of elderly men.  About 300 of them served.  Served for life.  Rome was a aristocratic republic Controlled by a small group of privileged people.

4. Social Division Patricians Families of descended from the original senators, during the kings time period.  Owned most of the land  Only ones to serve in the Senate.  The Patrician was a minority group in Rome.

5. Social Division Plebeians They were the majority of the people.  They were the small farmer, merchants, less wealthy landowners.  Could not hold a public office. The Plebeians finally created a council and elected their own officials. They were called the tribunes. Finally in 287 BC the plebeian got equal citizenship.