1. From Republic to Empire
Rome
From Republic to Empire

2. Definitions
Republic: form of government in which people elect representatives, who in turn vote on their behalf. Nominated/elected leader.
Empire: a large group of states/countries/(culturally diverse territory) under a single supreme authority. One emperor/monarch in charge.

3. Rome as a republic Established in 509 B.C. Lasted for 500 years
Patricians: landholding, upper class
Plebeians: farmers, merchants, every one else

4. Structuring the Republic
Senate (300 members – patricians – served for life)
1. Consul Consul
Supervise the business of gov. and army. Could only serve one year/every 10 years. Had to approve each other’s decisions, could veto each other.
SYSTEM OF CHECKS AND BALANCES

5. The Senate could choose a dictator in the event of war
The Senate could choose a dictator in the event of war. Dictator could only rule for 6 months.

6. Plebeians fight for rights
Elected their own officials called tribunes, to protect their rights.
Could veto, or block laws.
Worked in the Assembly, and eventually chose the consuls.
Over time, forced patricians to accept plebeians as consuls and senators.
12 Tables: laws written down and made public at the Forum, or Roman marketplace, for all to see.

7. Roman Empire – Rome grows through conquest
Civil wars at home, slaves rebelling
As Rome took on more and more land, they took on the characteristics of an empire.
The land proved to be too large to control, military leaders became more powerful than consuls.
Emperors inherited power, served for life, and even though there was a Senate, it was powerless against the emperor.

8. Political Structure of the Roman Republic

9. Crash Course: Rome