Roman Constitution the People Under the Rule

Roman Constitution

The people under the rule of the Roman constitution were not themselves certain if they were living in an aristocracy, a despot, or a democracy. The rules of the legislature would indicate that the people were in control of the government, however only those with money or familial power were able to take part in that government. Polybius illustrates that the Consul and Senate which are responsible for administration and were in charge of the state's coffers. However, at the same time, he tries to underscore the importance of the average person in Rome. He shows several ways in which the people have power, such as in honoring heroic acts and punishing evil ones. He also claims that the people are responsible for war and peace because the other branches would need the consent of the people in order to act. In his writing, Polybius seems adamant that there is equality among the three branches of the Roman constitution. There are quite a few things that he overlooks in his analysis, particularly the influence that politicians would have had to manipulate the populous with words and ensure that their vision of events came to pass.

Questions:

1. What are the three elements of the Roman constitution identified by Polybius?

The Consul, the Senate, and the people comprise the Roman constitution.

2. How do these three elements work together? What sort of political system is Polybius describing?

The three elements work together in that each reports to the others and none has all power over the other two parts. The Consul are in charge of the administration, the Senate controls the treasury, and the people are in control of "honour and of punishment." In this, he is describing a triumvirate, a three-branch government of equal parts and powers.

3. What role, according to Polybius, do the Roman people play in the Roman constitution?

The people are responsible for honor and punishment. The people decide what and who is good or bad. They choose whether someone should be granted life or sentenced to death. It is the people who bestow honors and rewards on others that they feel are deserving. Most importantly, it is the determination of the people whether or not the Romans would go to war or demand a peaceful solution to disagreements.

4. What comparisons can you make to the U.S. Constitution?