Roman Citizen (Civis): A male individual born to free parents in Rome or granted citizenship, with rights such as voting, being elected, and defending civic interests. Women, children, foreigners, and slaves are generally excluded from full citizenship rights.
Patricians: The aristocratic class of Rome, descended from the original noble families, holding most political power and influence, especially in the Senate.
Plebeians (Plebs): The common citizens of Rome, often poorer, who gained political rights over time through social struggles, including the right to elect their own representatives (tribunes).
Equites (Knights): Wealthy class below the patricians, involved mainly in commerce and finance, often influential in economic affairs.
Cursus Honorum: The sequential order of public offices held by aspiring politicians, including magistracies like consuls, ediles, quaestors, and censors, forming the political career path.
Homo Novus: A "new man" who is the first in his family to reach high political office, exemplified by Cicero, symbolizing social mobility within Roman society.
1. What does Roman citizenship primarily mean in the context of Roman society?
2. What was the typical length of the term served by Roman consuls?
3. What was the primary role of the Roman social hierarchy in Roman society?
Roman Citizen — rights?
Voting, holding office, legal protection.
Senate — role?
Advises magistrates and controls policy.
Homo Novus — social status?
First in family to reach high office.
Roman Citizen — rights?
Voting, being elected, defending civic interests.
Patricians — role?
Aristocratic class with political power.
Plebeians — gained?
Political rights via social struggles.
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