The Roman Senate: Structure, Power, and Political Influence

The Roman Senate

The Senate was the second major element of Republican politics. Its predominance was a natural consequence of having classic annual magistrates.

The Body of Nobilitas

The Senate was the most important body, representing the Nobilitas. Senators were composed of Patres (patricians) and Conscripti (plebeians).

Election and Selection

Senators were elected via plebiscite (318–312 BC) to transfer the functions of consuls to the senators. This plebiscite prescribed the method for electing senators.

Political practice determined the graduation of judges eligible to serve as senators. First, the censors wrote to former dictators and ex-censors. After the former consuls, the Senate met when convened and chaired by a judge who held Agendi Cum Patribus Ius. This president held the Dicendi Sententiam and could seek the opinion of the senators on any subject:

• The president gave his opinion first.
• Other senators followed.
• The vote was performed by Discessionem.

Competencies and Authority

The Senate held significant expertise in foreign policy. Decisions were based on the credibility of the body; in many cases, judges were mere executors of the Senate's will. While these decisions did not have the force of law, judges rarely deviated from them.

Key Powers and Responsibilities

• Interregnum: Following the traditions of the archaic period, the Senate took the Imperium, and the Patres were responsible for exercising power.
• Patrum Auctoritas: This involved the recognition of decisions taken by popular assemblies. It was a significant power, covering electoral choices and binding decisions, except for the Concilia plebis. From 339 BC, the Auctoritas Patrum shifted from a control post to a preventive control, overseeing bills and candidates.

The Senate also held authority in financial matters, as censors were required to seek Senate approval for public works. Furthermore, the Senate ratified treaties with other peoples, monitored military operations via Legati, and performed various religious functions.