Senate

Definition

The Senate was a governing body in ancient Rome that played a crucial role in the political system, especially during the Republic. Originally formed as an advisory council to the kings, it evolved into a powerful institution that influenced legislation, foreign policy, and finances, serving as a symbol of patrician authority throughout Roman history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Senate was composed primarily of patricians and served for life, allowing its members to develop significant experience and influence over time.
2. In the early Republic, the Senate's powers were mainly advisory, but it gradually gained authority over decisions related to war, finance, and foreign policy.
3. The Senate could also appoint dictators during times of crisis, giving it considerable power to control governance in emergencies.
4. The Senate was involved in passing laws and decrees known as 'senatus consulta,' which were recommendations that carried significant weight.
5. Despite its power, the Senate faced challenges from the growing influence of popular assemblies and the rise of plebeian leaders demanding greater representation.

Review Questions

• How did the role and power of the Senate evolve from its founding to the establishment of the Republic?
  • Initially, the Senate served as an advisory council to kings, but as Rome transitioned into a Republic, its power expanded significantly. The Senate became instrumental in shaping legislation and policy decisions. Over time, it transformed from an advisory body into a dominant force in Roman politics, particularly in matters related to war and foreign affairs, reflecting the changing dynamics of power within Rome.
• What was the relationship between the Senate and the Plebeian Assembly, and how did this affect political power dynamics in Rome?
  • The Senate often held significant influence over political decisions, while the Plebeian Assembly represented the interests of common citizens. This relationship created tensions, as plebeians sought more power and representation. The introduction of plebiscites allowed plebeians to enact laws without Senate approval, gradually shifting some political power away from the traditional patrician dominance represented by the Senate.
• Evaluate the impact of social conflict between patricians and plebeians on the functioning of the Senate during the late Republic.
  • The ongoing social conflict between patricians and plebeians profoundly impacted the Senate's functioning during the late Republic. As plebeians gained more rights and representation through reforms like the Lex Hortensia, which made plebiscites binding on all citizens, the authority of the Senate was challenged. This struggle for power led to political instability and civil unrest, which ultimately weakened the Senate's influence and contributed to the rise of autocratic rule under figures like Julius Caesar.

Related terms

Consuls: The two highest-ranking elected officials in the Roman Republic who served as heads of state and military commanders.

Patricians: The aristocratic families in ancient Rome who held significant social and political power, often dominating the Senate.

Plebiscites: Legally binding resolutions passed by the Plebeian Assembly, which could be used to bypass the Senate's influence on certain issues.