1. Chapter 14 April 1, 2008

2. Background Information  509 B.C. Romans overthrew Tarquin the Proud  Romans set up a republic, or a form of government in which the people choose their rulers  Romans were divided into two social classes: patricians (rich families) and plebeians (poor, usually farmers and artisans)

3. Patricians  10% of population  Performed religious rituals  Could hold public office

4. Plebeians  Citizens  Paid taxes  Served in army  Could NOT marry patricians or serve in the government  Could be sold into slavery if in debt

5. The Government  Consuls  Heads of the Roman Republic  Were chosen each year  Administrators and military leaders  Power of veto  Both had to agree before law was passed

6. Senate  300 men  Chosen for life  Handled daily problems of the government  Advised the consuls  Proposed laws  Approved public contracts for building roads and temples

7. Judges, Assemblies, and Tribunes  Protected the rights of plebeians  All Roman citizens belonged to Assemblies  Could declare war  Could agree to peace terms

8. The Twelve Tables  450 B.C. Laws were carved on 12 bronze tables  Foundation for all Roman Law  Placed in the Forum  Applied to patricians and plebeians  Included wills, property rights, marriage customs, punishment for crimes and court actions

9. Review Questions  What were some restrictions placed on the plebeians during the early years of the Roman Republic?  Who belonged to the Roman Assemblies?  Why do you think it was important for the Romans to have laws written down?