Roman Monarchy to Republic: The 509 BC Patrician Shift

Roman Monarchy and the 509 BC Transition to Republic

Foundation of Rome (753 BC)

In the 8th century BC, Rome began as a farming community on the seven hills by the Tiber River. It evolved under Etruscan and Greek influence but was not initially a unified state. Rome was formally founded on April 21, 753 BC, uniting Latin and Sabine communities under Etruscan dominance, with the legendary King Romulus. This foundation was a deliberate political act, establishing the Populus Romanus Quirites (the body of Roman citizens).

Structure of the Roman Monarchy

The King (Rex)

Under the monarchy, the king (rex) reigned with the perceived approval of the gods. He served as the supreme leader, warrior, priest, and judge. The basis of his reign was authority and divine approval. He was advised by a council of elders (senatus, composed of patres gentium - heads of clans) and priests.

Advisory Bodies: Senate and Comitia Curiata

There was also an assembly called the comitia curiata, representing 30 curiae and totaling 300 knights and 3000 foot soldiers.

Early Roman Society: Patricians and Plebeians

Roman society was divided into nobles and commoners:

• Patricians: The nobility ('children of fathers' or those with established lineage) who possessed significant clientela (networks of followers and dependents).
• Plebeians: The commoners ('the multitude'), often farmers, herders, and craftsmen without noble lineage.

Religion, Law, and Governance

Initially, religion dictated law and legitimized the patrician government, which controlled sacred traditions. Later, the ties between religion and politics loosened, and a constitutional system developed. Law came to be seen more as an expression of public will rather than solely the creation of god-kings.

The Birth of the Roman Republic (509 BC)

In 509 BC, the last Etruscan king was overthrown by the patricians, marking the beginning of the Roman Republic. The constitution of the Roman Republic emerged, signaling the start of the conflict between the plebeians (common people, often burdened by debt) and the patrician oligarchy.

Patrician Dominance in the Early Republic

Patricians held most political and religious privileges:

• Controlled most land.
• Controlled the army.
• Dominated the government, which consisted of:
  • Two Consuls: Held executive power, commanded the army, served as judges, managed public finances, and proposed laws (subject to approval).
    • In crises, a Dictator could be appointed with absolute power for a maximum of six months.
  • Centuriate Assembly (Comitia Centuriata): A popular assembly that voted, elected consuls and other magistrates, and passed laws (which required Senate approval).
  • Senate: Composed initially of 300 members, it advised magistrates and assemblies, controlled finances, and directed foreign policy.