The ROMAN REPUBLIC (509 BC – 27 BC) Geography • Rome is ...

The Roman Republic
In 509 BC the Romans drove out the Etruscans who had ruled them.
The Romans established a new form of government called a republic. In a republic officials are
chosen by the people.
The most powerful governing body was the Senate. Senators were members of the landholding
upper class called the patricians. These officials elected two consuls, who supervised the
business of government and commanded the armies.
The plebeians – farmers, merchants, artisans, and traders – who made up most of the
population – had little power.
Under Roman law, the male head of household had authority over his wife and family. During
the late years of the republic and early years of the empire, however, women gained greater
freedom. Roman women held prominent public roles and owned successful businesses.
The Senate