Tribunus Plebis
Definition
A tribunus plebis was a Roman official who represented the interests of the plebeians, or common people, in the Roman government. They had the power to veto laws and protect the rights of the plebeians.
Analogy
Think of a tribunus plebis as a superhero for the common people. Just like how superheroes have special powers to protect and defend others, a tribunus plebis had special powers to safeguard the rights and interests of the plebeians.
Related terms
Lex Hortensia: This law passed in 287 BCE granted equal legal standing between patricians (the aristocracy) and plebeians (the common people), further strengthening the position of tribuni plebis.
Concilium Plebis: This was an assembly where only plebeians could participate and vote on matters that concerned them. The decisions made in this assembly were binding on all Roman citizens.
Patrician: In contrast to plebeians, patricians were members of Rome's aristocratic class who held significant political power and privileges.
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