Roman Constitution Overview (Polybius)

What is one harmful consequence of Roman expansion related to societal changes?

The Gracchii brothers successfully implemented all of their proposed reforms.

Who was responsible for transforming the military into a client army?

Tiberius Gracchus bypassed the _____ to pass his land reform laws.

Match the following figures with their notable actions or characteristics:

Which role is responsible for commanding the army and seeking the approval of the gods?

The Roman Senate had direct legislative power to enforce laws.

What is the term used for the path of honors that one must follow to rise to high power in Roman government?

The __________ was created to protect the interests of the plebeians and is considered sacrosanct.

Match the following Roman magistrates with their primary roles:

What describes the Roman government's combination of leadership forms?

The Plebian Assembly elects consuls and quaestors.

What is the maximum duration for which a dictator could be appointed in Rome during emergencies?

Roman Constitution (Based on Polybius)

Not a written document; developed over time through unwritten guidelines and principles.
Social orders divided into classes: men over women, free over slaves, patricians over plebeians.
Government structure comprised of magistrates and assemblies. Magistrates held one-year terms, and there were two of each magistrate type.
Combined elements of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy.

Monarchic Elements (Consuls)

Consuls were the highest magistrates, commanding armies in war and governing cities in peace.
Held two powers: Imperium (command of the army) and Auspicium (seeking approval from the gods).
Censors held 18-month terms, conducted censuses, and were among the most prestigious offices.
Praetors supported consuls.
Aediles managed public buildings, festivals, and order.
Quaestors oversaw the treasury.
Tribunes of the Plebians were created to protect plebeian interests and were considered sacrosanct.
Dictators held extraordinary powers for six months and were appointed by the Senate during emergencies.

Oligarchic Elements (Senate)

Senate was an assembly of wealthy citizens.
Senate acted as an advisory board through senatus consulta.
Senate controlled finances and foreign policy.
Consuls appointed senators.

Democratic Elements (Popular Assemblies)

Popular assemblies, or assemblies of ordinary citizens represented the democratic elements.
Assemblies held power to check consuls and the Senate through electing officers and enacting laws.

Governing Branches Checking Each Other

Consuls had veto power over each other and could not bring armies into the city.
Censors oversaw and regulated membership and actions of senators.
Assemblies approved officers, laws, and checked actions of magistrates.
Tribunes of the Plebians possessed a veto power against laws that harmed the common people.

Explore the intricacies of the Roman Constitution as described by Polybius. This quiz delves into the social classes, governmental structure, and roles of various magistrates within the Roman Republic. Gain insights into the blend of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy that characterized ancient Roman governance.