Tribunician power

Definition

Tribunician power was a significant political authority in ancient Rome, primarily associated with the office of the tribune of the plebs. This power allowed tribunes to represent the interests of the plebeians, propose legislation, and veto decisions made by other magistrates or the Senate, ensuring protection against arbitrary actions by patricians and officials. In the context of the Age of Augustus, this power was pivotal as it contributed to the consolidation of Augustus' authority while maintaining a semblance of traditional republican governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Augustus was granted tribunician power in 23 BC, which allowed him to exercise significant influence over Roman politics without holding traditional office.
2. This power was used strategically by Augustus to portray himself as a protector of the common people while simultaneously consolidating his personal authority.
3. Tribunician power included the right to convene the plebeian assembly, further enabling Augustus to enact his policies with popular support.
4. The tribune's ability to veto legislation was essential for Augustus, as it enabled him to block any potential threats from rival politicians or factions within Rome.
5. The title 'tribune' became associated with the idea of popular sovereignty, helping Augustus maintain a connection with the ideals of the Republic even as he established an imperial regime.

Review Questions

• How did Augustus' acquisition of tribunician power affect his relationship with the plebeians and the Senate?
  • Augustus' acquisition of tribunician power greatly enhanced his relationship with the plebeians as it positioned him as their protector and champion. By holding this office, he could veto decisions that might harm the common people, making him popular among them. However, this also created tension with the Senate as they saw his increasing power as a challenge to their authority and traditional republican governance.
• Analyze how Augustus used tribunician power to legitimize his rule while maintaining elements of the Republic.
  • Augustus adeptly used tribunician power to legitimize his rule by presenting himself as a defender of the Republic and its values. By positioning himself as a tribune, he could emphasize his commitment to protecting the rights and interests of ordinary citizens. This strategic use of tribunician authority allowed him to consolidate power without appearing overtly authoritarian, thus maintaining a facade of republican principles while effectively establishing an imperial system.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of tribunician power on Roman governance and political culture following Augustus' reign.
  • The long-term implications of tribunician power after Augustus' reign were profound as it set a precedent for future emperors to claim similar powers under the guise of protecting popular interests. This shift contributed to a gradual erosion of traditional republican ideals and institutions, leading to a more autocratic style of governance. As subsequent leaders adopted these strategies, it fundamentally altered Roman political culture, paving the way for an imperial system where personal authority increasingly overshadowed collective governance.

Related terms

Tribune of the Plebs: An elected official in ancient Rome who represented the plebeians and held the power to veto legislation and protect their interests.

Imperium: The supreme executive power held by Roman magistrates, allowing them to command armies and enforce laws.

Roman Republic: The era of ancient Roman civilization characterized by a complex form of government and institutions that governed Rome from around 509 BC until the establishment of the Roman Empire.