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The Roman Republic: Struggles, Democratic Elements, And Questions

540 Words3 Pages

Title: The Roman Republic: Struggles, Democratic Elements, and Questions

Introduction:
The establishment of the Roman Republic marked a significant shift in the political landscape of ancient Rome. This essay explores the circumstances that led to the establishment of the Republic, as well as the democratic elements that characterized its governance. However, it also acknowledges certain aspects that raise questions regarding the Republic's democratic nature.

Circumstances leading to the establishment of the Roman Republic:
The Roman Republic emerged in the wake of intense struggles against kingship. According to historical accounts, the last Roman king, Tarquinius Superbus, ruled oppressively, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among …show more content…

The consuls were chosen annually and held equal powers, ensuring a balance of power and preventing autocracy (Cornell, 1995). The Senate, composed of aristocratic members, advised and influenced decision-making, representing the interests of various factions within the society.

Assemblies: The Republic also incorporated popular assemblies, such as the Centuriate Assembly and the Tribal Assembly, which allowed citizens to participate in decision-making and legislative processes (Cornell, 1995). While these assemblies were not fully representative of the entire population, they provided avenues for broader citizen engagement compared to monarchical rule.

Rule of Law: The Roman Republic emphasized the importance of legal principles and institutions. The Twelve Tables, a codified set of laws, ensured transparency, equality before the law, and protection of individual rights (Cornell, 1995). This legal framework, coupled with the presence of elected magistrates, promoted the rule of law and limited arbitrary exercise of power.

Elements questioning the Republic's democratic

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