Lucius Tarquinius Collatinus

Definition

Lucius Tarquinius Collatinus was one of the first consuls of the Roman Republic, serving alongside his co-consul, Brutus, after the fall of the monarchy. His election marked a significant shift from monarchical rule to a republican system in Rome, symbolizing the end of royal power and the establishment of a government accountable to the people.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Collatinus was a member of the aristocratic Tarquin family, which had fallen from power due to widespread dissatisfaction with their rule.
2. His election as consul in 509 BC symbolized the rejection of monarchy and the embrace of republican governance in Rome.
3. Collatinus faced challenges during his term due to ongoing tensions between supporters of the monarchy and advocates for the republic.
4. He eventually resigned from his position to avoid potential conflicts of interest arising from his lineage to the previous royal family.
5. Collatinus's legacy is significant as it represents both a personal and political break from monarchical tradition in Rome, laying foundational principles for future governance.

Review Questions

• How did Lucius Tarquinius Collatinus contribute to the establishment of the Roman Republic?
  • Lucius Tarquinius Collatinus played a pivotal role in establishing the Roman Republic as one of its first consuls. His election alongside Brutus marked a definitive break from monarchy, illustrating a commitment to a government where power was derived from elected officials rather than hereditary kings. This transition set important precedents for republican governance and accountability in Rome.
• Discuss the implications of Collatinus's resignation from his consulship on the perception of leadership within the newly formed Republic.
  • Collatinus's resignation from his position as consul due to concerns about his family's royal ties highlighted the fragile nature of legitimacy in the early Roman Republic. It showcased how leaders were expected to prioritize republican values over personal loyalty or heritage. His departure also indicated a sensitivity to public opinion and political pressures that were pivotal in shaping future leadership dynamics in Rome.
• Evaluate how Lucius Tarquinius Collatinus's background influenced his role during the transition from monarchy to republic and its impact on future political structures.
  • Lucius Tarquinius Collatinus's background as a member of the discredited Tarquin family significantly impacted his role during this critical transition. While he embodied aristocratic ideals, his connection to monarchy was contentious and forced him to navigate complex political terrain. This tension between noble heritage and republican values informed future political structures by emphasizing meritocracy and civic responsibility over lineage, influencing how subsequent leaders were selected and perceived within Roman society.

Related terms

Brutus: Marcus Junius Brutus was a key figure in the overthrow of the last king of Rome, Tarquin the Proud, and served as co-consul with Collatinus, representing the new republican ideals.

Roman Republic:

The Roman Republic was the period of ancient Roman civilization that began with the overthrow of the monarchy in 509 BC and lasted until 27 BC, characterized by a complex system of governance with elected officials.

Tarquins: The Tarquins were a powerful family that ruled as kings in Rome, with Tarquin the Proud being the last king before the establishment of the Republic, marking a significant historical turning point.