1. Roman Social Classes and The Roman Republic Ancient Europe

2. Social Structure Patricians – wealthy, aristocratic class (land owning upper- class)Patricians – wealthy, aristocratic class (land owning upper- class) Very few people were patriciansVery few people were patricians CitizensCitizens Plebeians – most peoplePlebeians – most people Wealthy non-aristocratic townspeople and landownersWealthy non-aristocratic townspeople and landowners Farmers, merchants, traders, artisansFarmers, merchants, traders, artisans They were citizensThey were citizens They had little influenceThey had little influence Slaves – NOT based on race! NOT citizens!Slaves – NOT based on race! NOT citizens!

3. The Roman Republic Roman government was under patrician controlRoman government was under patrician control Legislative BranchLegislative Branch Assembly of CenturiesAssembly of Centuries The Senate (300 powerful patricians who served for life)The Senate (300 powerful patricians who served for life) Executive BranchExecutive Branch Headed by two patrician officials (consuls) elected for 1 year termsHeaded by two patrician officials (consuls) elected for 1 year terms They oversaw other executive positions: praetors, judges, censorsThey oversaw other executive positions: praetors, judges, censors Dictator – only one who could overrule the counselsDictator – only one who could overrule the counsels Only used in times of extreme crisis – feared by the RomansOnly used in times of extreme crisis – feared by the Romans

4. Rise of the Plebs Plebs were not happy having no powerPlebs were not happy having no power 494 BCE they refused to fight in the Roman army unless changes were made494 BCE they refused to fight in the Roman army unless changes were made The Assembly of the Tribes was createdThe Assembly of the Tribes was created POWER TO THE PEOPLE!!!POWER TO THE PEOPLE!!!

6. The Twelve Tables Most significant plebeian victoryMost significant plebeian victory Creation of a written law codeCreation of a written law code Ensured that laws were applied fairly to both the patricians and plebeiansEnsured that laws were applied fairly to both the patricians and plebeians 451 BCE – patricians engraved the laws on twelve bronze tablets451 BCE – patricians engraved the laws on twelve bronze tablets These became the basis for all future Roman lawThese became the basis for all future Roman law