1. Aim: Explain the Main Institutions of the Roman Republic

2. Why Did Rome Develop a Republic?
Last king of Rome was Tarquin the Proud
Harsh tyrant-driven from power in 509 BCE
Romans declared they wouldn’t be ruled by a king
Established Republic
Form of government where power rests with citizens who have right to vote for leaders
Citizenship granted to free-born male citizens 2

3. Patricians and Plebians
Different groups in Rome struggled for power
1)Patricians- Wealthy landowners/ had power
2) Plebians- Common farmers/ Majority
Patricians inherit power on social status
Plebians were citizens & had voting right
Barred by law from holding government position
Leaders did allow Plebians to form own assembly
Plebians elected Tribunes- protected Plebians rights 3

4. Twelve Tables Important victory for Plebians
Forced the creation of a written law code
With laws unwritten, Patrician officials interpreted law (Verbal) to suit themselves
Law carved on 12 tablets
Established idea that all citizen had right to the protection of the law 4

5. The Senate Branch of the government
Had legislative and administrative functions
300 members were chosen
Exercised great influence 5