Roman Government Worksheet April 5, 2011

What was the main responsibility of a magistrate in the Roman republic? Elected each year to run the city and lead the army (2 consuls) – Below the consuls were other magistrates-each elected for one year; some were judges, others managed finances or organized games and festivals

Why would they need to have 2 consuls? So that no one person could become too powerful – (to avoid one person being in charge of both the army and the city)

Why would a consul only be elected for a one year term? If they were doing a bad job, they can easily be replaced after a year… If they are doing a good job, they can be re- elected and serve again Also to avoid anyone becoming too powerful

What was the main purpose of the Senate? To advise the city’s leaders By 200BC the Senate took control of the city’s finances Served for LIFE

Why would they want to have senators be people that were good with numbers and money? Since they were in charge of the city’s finances, it only makes sense that they should be good with numbers and money

How or why did the senate have “power” over the magistrates? Magistrates became senators after completing their terms in office… – If you were going to be stuck with someone for life (senators served life terms) would you want them to not like you…?

What was the main purpose of the assembly? Primary job was to elect magistrates who ran Rome

What was the main purpose of the tribunes? Elected officials called tribunes (elected by plebeians), they had the ability to veto or prohibit actions by other officials.

What ability made the tribunes very powerful in Rome’s government? The ability to veto other officials-they served one year to keep them from abusing their power