Roman Government Flashcards
Name and describe the two groups of people in Rome.
Plebeians- poor and no land
Patricians- wealthy and had land
What is a republic? How does it differ from a democracy?
elected officials make decisions: citizens vote for laws/decisions
Why did plebeians and patricians have civil wars?
The plebeians resented the patricians power and were angry about their lack of power
What were the Twelve Tables?
basic rights and duties for Roman citizens
Name and describe the three branches of government.
Legislative: senate and assemblies
Judicial: eight judges
Executive: two consuls who directed government and commanded the army
Explain how Rome was able to control such a large area during the Pax Romana.
Soldiers guarded the empire, roads were built for east transportation, and the strong navy guarded the Mediterranean Sea
Who was the emperor at the beginning of the Pax Romana?
Augustus
Who was Constantine?
The emperor who made Christianity legal and reunited Rome
Describe the changes in Rome’s attitude toward Christianity over time.
At first, Roman leaders despised if Christianity and Christians were persecuted. Then Constantine legalized Christianity and made it the official religion of Rome.
