The Roman Republic

Two Classes - Patricians (wealthy landowners) - Plebeians (middle class)

Two Consuls - could veto each other Praetors- interpreted the law, acted as judges Senate - 300 patrician men, served for life

Plebeians wanted more involvement in the gov’t.

494 B.C. – strike = shared power471 B.C. – Council of Plebs300’s B.C. – allowed to become consuls287 B.C. - Could pass laws, all male

citizens equal

Temporary Served during emergencies Appointed by the Senate

CincinnatusBest known early Roman dictatorFarmer, served for 16 days

Twelve tablesRome’s 1st code of lawsApplied only to Roman citizens

Rule of Law Law should apply equally to everyone

Punic WarsFirst Punic War

Rome and Carthage want control of Sicily Rome built a navy Rome won (1 – 0)

Second Punic WarCarthage expands into SpainHannibal’s army, elephantsScipio defeats Hannibal (Carthage)Rome won (2 – 0)

Third Punic WarRome burns CarthageRome won (3 -0)

Rome expands across the Mediterranean Sea