Tribunus

Definition

Tribunus refers to a military officer in ancient Rome, specifically known as a tribune. This position was significant within the Roman military hierarchy, as tribunes were responsible for various administrative and command duties. The role often served as a stepping stone for individuals aspiring to rise in rank, as they gained vital experience and leadership skills that would be crucial for future military and political careers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The role of tribunus could be held by both patricians and plebeians, showcasing a degree of social mobility within the military ranks.
2. Tribunes often acted as staff officers to higher-ranking generals, helping to manage logistics and coordinate troop movements during campaigns.
3. There were different types of tribunes, including the tribunus laticlavius, who was typically an equestrian officer with greater responsibilities, and the tribunus angusticlavius, usually from the lower classes.
4. In addition to military duties, tribunes had some civil responsibilities and could wield influence in political matters, particularly within the context of their legions.
5. The position of tribunus was crucial in the Roman army's structure, as tribunes were instrumental in training soldiers and maintaining discipline among troops.

Review Questions

• What were the primary responsibilities of a tribunus in the Roman military?
  • A tribunus held a variety of responsibilities within the Roman military. Primarily, they acted as staff officers supporting higher-ranking generals by managing logistics and coordinating troop movements. Additionally, they played essential roles in training soldiers and maintaining discipline within their legions, contributing to overall military effectiveness.
• How did the social status of individuals affect their ability to become a tribunus in ancient Rome?
  • In ancient Rome, both patricians and plebeians could serve as tribunes, indicating that social mobility was possible within the military ranks. The position allowed individuals from different backgrounds to rise through the ranks based on merit and capability. This dual accessibility enriched the Roman military with diverse perspectives and experiences.
• Evaluate the significance of the tribunus role in shaping future leaders within the Roman political landscape.
  • The role of tribunus was vital for shaping future leaders in Rome due to its combination of military and civil responsibilities. By serving as tribunes, individuals gained essential leadership experience and demonstrated their capabilities in command positions. Many prominent political figures emerged from this role, leveraging their military successes into political power, thus intertwining the military and political spheres within Roman society.

Related terms

Legion: A legion was the primary unit of the Roman army, typically composed of about 4,500 to 6,000 soldiers, including infantry and cavalry.

Centurion: A centurion was a professional officer in the Roman army who commanded a century, which usually consisted of about 80 soldiers.

Aedile: An aedile was an elected official responsible for public works, games, and the maintenance of temples and public buildings in ancient Rome.