Definitions

• Republic - A from of government in which power rests with citizens who have the right to vote for their leaders.
• Patrician - Wealthy landowners who held most of the power.
• Plebeian - The common artisans, merchants, and farmers who make up a majority of the population.
• Tribune - Protected the rights of the plebeians from unfair acts of patrician officials.
• Consul - Like kings, commanded the army and directed the government.
• Senate - An aristocratic branch of Rome's government.
• Dictator - A leader who had absolute power to make laws and command the army.
• Legion - 5,000 heavily armed foot soldiers.
• Punic Wars - Between 264 B.C. and 146 B.C., Rome and Carthage fought three wars.
• Hannibal - A brilliant military strategist who wished to avenge Carthage's early loss.