How did the Roman Republic begin?

Tarquinius Superbus was removed by Lucius Junius Brutus, leading to a government with no king (Republic).

What are the two main social classes in Rome?

Patricians (upper class) and Plebeians (lower class).

What are the roles of Patricians?

Wealthy landowners, senators, priests, generals, magistrates (elected officials).

What are the roles of Plebeians?

Commoners, farmers, artisans, soldiers (legions)

How did Plebeians eventually gain more power?

Through the "Conflict of the Orders," they could elect tribunes to represent them in government.

Who was Lucretia?

The wife of a Roman nobleman and a symbol of virtue (goodness).

What event sparked the overthrow of the Roman monarchy?

The rape of Lucretia by Sextus Tarquinius, the son of the king.

Why did Sextus assault Lucretia?

He was overcome with lust (desire) and wanted to dishonor her.

What was Lucretia's tragic choice?

She submitted to Sextus' assault to protect her husband's reputation.

What impact did Lucretia's death have?

It sparked outrage and led to the exile of the Tarquins and the founding of the Roman Republic.

Why did some young Patricians want to overthrow the Republic?

They enjoyed more power under the monarchy and resented being held accountable for their actions.

What was the Tarquin Conspiracy?

A plot by young Patricians and ambassadors from the Tarquin family to assassinate Brutus and restore the monarchy.

What was the new highest position of power in the Republic?

Consul (There were always two consuls to prevent one from gaining too much power.)

How did the Senate deal with the Tarquin Conspiracy?

They executed the conspirators and confiscated all of Superbus' property.

How did Brutus prove his dedication to the Republic?

He approved the execution of his own sons who were part of the conspiracy.

What replaced the king's power in the Roman Republic?

Magistrates, with consuls holding the highest position.

What was the purpose of having two consuls?

To prevent any one person from gaining too much power.

What were some limitations of a consul's power?

Their term was only one year, and they could be blocked by the other consul.

What job involved managing finances and social classes in the Republic?

Censor

What was the role of a dictator?

To lead Rome during emergencies with absolute power for a maximum of 6 months.

Who was Brutus?

He helped overthrow the Roman monarchy (possibly based on a real person).

Why was Brutus so important?

He used his position as tribune of the celeres to rally the people against the king after Lucretia's rape. He helped establish the Roman Republic and became one of the first consuls.

Why did Brutus want to overthrow the monarchy?

He rallied people against the king after Lucretia's rape, helped establish the Republic.

What did Brutus do to weaken the monarchy?

He exposed the king's crimes to the Senate and called for an assembly. The people agreed to banish the king and his family.

What role did Brutus play in the new Republic?

Helped set up the Republic, became consul (highest position), increased Senate size and created new a religious office.