---
title: Roman Republic
author: Donald L. Wasson
source: https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Republic/
format: machine-readable-alternate
license: Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/)
updated: 2025-07-30
---

# Roman Republic

_Authored by [Donald L. Wasson](https://www.worldhistory.org/user/DWasson/)_

In the late 6th century BCE, the small [city-state](https://www.worldhistory.org/Polis/) of [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) overthrew the shackles of monarchy and created a republican government that, in theory if not always in practice, represented the wishes of its citizens. From this basis the [city](https://www.worldhistory.org/city/) would go on to [conquer](https://www.worldhistory.org/warfare/) all of the Italian peninsula and large parts of the [Mediterranean](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/mediterranean/) world and beyond. The Republic and its institutions of government would endure for five centuries, until, wrecked by civil wars, it would transform into a Principate ruled by emperors. Even then many of the political bodies, notably the Senate, created in the Republican period would endure, albeit with a reduction in power.

### Myth & Legend

The years prior to the rise of the Republic are lost to myth and legend. No contemporary written history of this period has survived. Although much of this history had been lost, the [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) historian [Livy](https://www.worldhistory.org/livy/) (59 BCE – 17 CE) was still able to write a remarkable *History of Rome* – 142 volumes – recounting the years of the monarchy through the fall of the Republic. Much of his history, however, especially the early years, was based purely on myth and oral accounts. Contrary to some interpretations, the fall of the monarchy and birth of the republic did not happen overnight. Some even claim it was far from bloodless. Historian Mary Beard in her *SPQR* wrote that the transformation from monarchy to republic was “borne over a period of decades, if not, centuries.”

Prior to the overthrow of the last king, Tarquinius Superbus or Tarquin the Proud in 510 BCE, the history of the city is mired in stories of valor and [war](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/). Even the founding of the city is mostly legend and many people have preferred the myth over fact anyway. For years Rome had admired the [Hellenistic](https://www.worldhistory.org/Hellenic_World/) [culture](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/culture/) of the Greeks, and so it easily embraced the story of [Aeneas](https://www.worldhistory.org/Aeneas/) and the founding of Rome as penned by Roman author [Virgil](https://www.worldhistory.org/virgil/) in his heroic [saga](https://www.worldhistory.org/Saga/) *[The Aeneid](https://www.worldhistory.org/The_Aeneid/)*. This story gave the Romans a link to an ancient, albeit [Greek](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/greek/), culture. This mythical tale is about Aeneas and his followers who, with the assistance of the goddess [Venus](https://www.worldhistory.org/venus/), escaped the city of [Troy](https://www.worldhistory.org/troy/) as it fell to the Greeks in the [Trojan War](https://www.worldhistory.org/Trojan_War/). [Jupiter](https://www.worldhistory.org/jupiter/)'s wife [Juno](https://www.worldhistory.org/Juno/) constantly interfered with the story's hero Aeneas throughout the tale. After a brief stay in [Carthage](https://www.worldhistory.org/carthage/), Aeneas eventually made his way to [Italy](https://www.worldhistory.org/italy/) and Latium, finally fulfilling his destiny. His descendants were the twins [Romulus and Remus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Romulus_and_Remus/) – the illegitimate sons of [Mars](https://www.worldhistory.org/Mars/), the [god](https://www.worldhistory.org/God/) of war, and the princess [Rhea](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rhea/) Silvia, the daughter of the true king of Alba Longa. Rescued from drowning by a she-wolf and raised by a shepherd, [Romulus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Romulus_and_Remus/) eventually defeated his brother in [battle](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/battle/) and founded the city of Rome, becoming its first king. So the legend goes.

[ ![The Meeting of Dido and Aeneas](https://www.worldhistory.org/img/r/p/750x750/3305.jpg?v=1777738274) The Meeting of Dido and Aeneas Nathaniel Dance-Holland (Public Domain) ](https://www.worldhistory.org/image/3305/the-meeting-of-dido-and-aeneas/ "The Meeting of Dido and Aeneas")### Early Years

After Tarquin's exit, Rome suffered from both external and internal conflict. Much of the 5th century BCE was spent struggling, not thriving. From 510 BCE to 275 BCE, while the government grappled with a number of internal political issues, the city grew to become the prevailing power over the entire Italian peninsula. From the Battle of Regallus (496 BCE), where Rome was victorious over the Latins, to the Pyrrhic Wars (280 – 275 BCE) against [Pyrrhus](https://www.worldhistory.org/pyrrhus/) of Epirus, Rome emerged as a dominant, warring superpower in the west. Through this expansion, the social and political structure of the Republic gradually evolved. From this simple beginning, the city would create a new government, a government that would one day dominate an area from the North Sea southward through [Gaul](https://www.worldhistory.org/gaul/) and Germania, westward to Hispania, and eastward to [Greece](https://www.worldhistory.org/greece/), [Syria](https://www.worldhistory.org/syria/) and North [Africa](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/africa/). The great Mediterranean became a Roman lake. These lands would remain under the control of Rome throughout the Republic and well into the formative years of the [Roman Empire](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Empire/).

### Government of the Republic

However, before it could become this dominant military force, the city had to have a stable government, and it was paramount that they avoid the possibility of one individual seizing control. In the end they would create a system exhibiting a true balance of power. Initially, after the fall of the monarchy, the Republic fell under the control of the great families – the [patricians](https://www.worldhistory.org/Patrician/), coming from the word *patres* or fathers. Only these great families could hold political or religious offices. The remaining citizens or *[plebeians](https://www.worldhistory.org/Plebeians/)* had no political authority although many of them were as wealthy as the patricians. However, much to the dismay of the patricians, this arrangement could not and would not last.

Tensions between the two classes continued to grow, especially since the poorer residents of the city provided the bulk of the army. They asked themselves why they should fight in a war if all of the profits go to the wealthy. Finally, in 494 BCE the plebeians went on strike, gathering outside Rome and refusing to move until they were granted representation; this was the famed Conflict of Orders or the First Succession of the Plebs. The strike worked, and the plebeians would be rewarded with an assembly of their own – the *Concilium Plebis* or Council of the Plebs.

[ ![Cicero Denounces Catiline](https://www.worldhistory.org/img/r/p/750x750/4532.jpg?v=1776682644) Cicero Denounces Catiline Cesare Macari (Public Domain) ](https://www.worldhistory.org/image/4532/cicero-denounces-catiline/ "Cicero Denounces Catiline")Although the government of Rome could never be considered a true democracy, it did provide many of its citizens ([women](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/women/) excluded) with a say in how their city was ruled. Through their rebellion, the plebeians had entered into a system where power lay in a number of magistrates (the c*ursus honorum*) and various assemblies. This executive power or *imperium* resided in two consuls. Elected by the *Comitia Centuriata*, a [consul](https://www.worldhistory.org/Consul/) ruled for only one year, presiding over the Senate, proposing laws, and commanding the armies. Uniquely, each consul could veto the decision of the other. After his term was completed, he could become a pro-consul, governing one of the republic's many territories, which was an appointment that could make him quite wealthy.

### Magistrates & Officials

There were several lesser magistrates: a *[praetor](https://www.worldhistory.org/praetor/)* (the only other official with *imperium* power) who served as a judicial officer with civic and provincial jurisdiction, a *[quaestor](https://www.worldhistory.org/Quaestor/)* who functioned as the financial administrator, and the *[aedile](https://www.worldhistory.org/Aedile/)* who supervised urban maintenance such as roads, water and food supplies, and the annual games and festivals. Lastly, there was the highly coveted position of *[censor](https://www.worldhistory.org/censor/)*, who held office for only 18 months. Elected every five years, he was the census taker, reviewing the list of citizens and their property. He could even remove members of the Senate for improper behavior. There was, however, one final position – the unique office of dictator. He was granted complete authority and was only named in times of emergency, usually serving for only six months. The most famous one, of course, was [Julius Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/Julius_Caesar/), who was named dictator for life.

### Assemblies

Aside from the magistrates there were also a number of assemblies. These assemblies were the voice of the people (male citizens only), thereby allowing for the opinions of some to be heard. Foremost of all the assemblies was the [Roman Senate](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Senate/) (a remnant of the old monarchy). Although unpaid, Senators served for life unless they were removed by a censor for public or private misconduct. While this body had no true legislative power, serving only as advisors to the consul and later the emperor, they still wielded considerable authority. They could propose laws as well as oversee foreign policy, civic administration, and finances. Power to enact laws, however, was given to a number of popular assemblies. All of the Senate's proposals had to be approved by either of two popular assemblies: the *Comitia Centuriata*, who not only enacted laws but also elected consuls and declared war, and the *Concilium Plebis*, who conveyed the wishes of the plebeians via their elected tribunes. These assemblies were divided into blocks and each of these blocks voted as a unit. Aside from these two major legislative bodies, there were also a number of smaller tribal assemblies.

[ ![The Curia](https://www.worldhistory.org/img/r/p/750x750/491.jpg?v=1775623385) The Curia Chris Ludwig (Copyright) ](https://www.worldhistory.org/image/491/the-curia/ "The Curia")The *Concilium Plebis* came into existence as a result of the Conflict of Orders – a conflict between the plebeians and patricians for political power. In the *Concilium Plebis*, aside from passing laws pertinent to the wishes of the plebeians, the members elected a number of tribunes who spoke on their behalf. Although this “Council of the Plebs” initially gave the plebeians some voice in government, it did not prove to be sufficient. In 450 BCE the [Twelve Tables](https://www.worldhistory.org/Twelve_Tables/) were enacted in order to appease a number of plebeian concerns. It became the first recorded [Roman law](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Law/) code. The Tables tackled domestic problems with an emphasis on both family life and private property. For instance, plebeians were not only prohibited from imprisonment for debt but also granted the right to appeal a magistrate's decision. Later, plebeians were even allowed to marry patricians and become consuls. Over time the rights of the plebeians continued to increase. In 287 BCE the *Lex Hortensia* declared that all laws passed by the *Concilium Plebis* were binding to both plebeians and patricians.

### Rome's Growth

This unique government allowed the Republic to grow far beyond the city's walls. Victory in the three [Punic Wars](https://www.worldhistory.org/Punic_Wars/) (264 – 146 BCE) waged against Carthage was the first step of Rome growing beyond the confines of the peninsula. After years of war and the embarrassment of defeat at the hands of [Hannibal](https://www.worldhistory.org/hannibal/), the Senate finally followed the advice of the outspoken [Cato the Elder](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cato_the_Elder/) who said “Carthago delenda est!” or “Carthage must be destroyed!”. Rome's destruction of the city after the [Third Punic War](https://www.worldhistory.org/Third_Punic_War/) (149-146 BCE) and the defeat of the Greeks in the four Macedonian Wars established the Republic as a true Mediterranean power. The submission of the Greeks brought the rich Hellenistic culture to Rome, that is its art, [philosophy](https://www.worldhistory.org/philosophy/) and [literature](https://www.worldhistory.org/literature/). Unfortunately, despite the growth of the Republic, the [Roman government](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Government/) was never meant to run an [empire](https://www.worldhistory.org/empire/). According to historian Tom Holland in his *[Rubicon](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Rubicon/)*, the Republic always seemed to be on the brink of political collapse. The old agrarian [economy](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/economy/) could not and would not be successfully transferred and only further broadened the gap between the rich and poor.

[ ![The Western Mediterranean 264 BCE](https://www.worldhistory.org/img/r/p/750x750/237.png?v=1774221425) The Western Mediterranean 264 BCE Jon Platek (CC BY-SA) ](https://www.worldhistory.org/image/237/the-western-mediterranean-264-bce/ "The Western Mediterranean 264 BCE")Rome, however, was more than just a warrior state. At home Romans believed in the importance of the family and the value of [religion](https://www.worldhistory.org/religion/). They also believed that citizenship or *civitas* defined what it meant to be truly civilized. This concept of citizenship would soon be put to the test when the Roman territories began to challenge Roman authority. However, this constant state of war had not only made the Republic wealthy but it also helped mold its society. After the Macedonian Wars, the influence of the Greeks affected both Roman culture and religion. Under this Greek influence, the traditional Roman gods transformed. In Rome an individual's personal expression of belief was unimportant, only a strict adherence to a rigid set of rituals, avoiding the dangers of religious fervor. Temples honoring these gods would be built throughout the empire.

Elsewhere in Rome the division of the classes could best be seen within the city walls in the tenements. Rome was a refuge to many people who left the surrounding towns and farms seeking a better way of life. However, an unfulfilled promise of jobs forced many people to live in the poorer parts of the city. The jobs they sought were often not there, resulting in an epidemic of homeless inhabitants. While many of the wealthier citizens resided on Palatine Hill, others lived in ramshackle apartments that were over-crowded and extremely dangerous – many lived in constant fear of fire and collapse. Although the lower floors of these buildings contained shops and more suitable housing, the upper floors were for the poorer residents; there was no access for natural light, no running water, and no toilets. The streets were poorly lit and since there was no police force, crime was rampant. Refuse, even human waste, was routinely dumped onto the streets, not only causing a terrible stench but serving as a breeding ground for disease. All of this added to an already disgruntled populace.

### The Gracchus Brothers

This continuing struggle between the have and have nots would remain until the Republic finally collapsed. However, there were those in power who tried to find a solution to the existing problems. In the 2nd century BCE, two brothers, both tribunes, tried but failed to make the necessary changes. Among a number of reform proposals, [Tiberius Gracchus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Gracchi_Brothers/) suggested giving land to both the unemployed and small farmers. Of course, the Senate, many of whom were large landowners, vehemently objected. Even the *Concilium Plebis* rejected the idea. Although his suggestion eventually became [law](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/law/), it could not be enforced. Riots soon followed and 300 people, including [Tiberius](https://www.worldhistory.org/Tiberius/), were killed. Unfortunately, a similar destiny awaited his brother.

While [Gaius Gracchus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Gracchi_Brothers/) also supported the land distribution idea, his fate was sealed when he proposed to give citizenship to all Roman allies. Like his big brother, his proposals met with considerable resistance. When 3,000 of his supporters were killed, he chose suicide. The failure of the brothers to achieve some balance in Rome would be one of a number of indicators that the Republic was doomed to fall. Later, another Roman would rise to initiate a series of reforms. [Sulla](https://www.worldhistory.org/sulla/) and his army marched on Rome and seized power, defeating his enemy [Gaius Marius](https://www.worldhistory.org/Gaius_Marius/). Assuming power in 88 BCE, Sulla quickly defeated King Mithridates of Pontus in the East, crushed the Samnites with the help of the generals [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) and [Crassus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Marcus_Licinius_Crassus/), purged the Roman Senate (80 were killed or exiled), reorganized the law courts, and enacted a number of reforms. He retired peacefully in 79 BCE.

[ ![Sulla](https://www.worldhistory.org/img/r/p/500x600/2521.jpg?v=1775623395) Sulla Carole Raddato (CC BY-SA) ](https://www.worldhistory.org/image/2521/sulla/ "Sulla")### Fall of the Republic

Unlike the Empire, the Republic would not collapse due to any external threat but instead fell to an internal menace. It came from the inability of the Republic to adjust to a constantly expanding empire. Even the ancient Sibylline prophecies predicted that failure would come internally, not by foreign invaders. There were a number of these internal warnings. The demand of the Roman allies for citizenship was one sign of this unrest – the so-called Social Wars of the 1st century BCE (90 – 88 BCE). For years the Roman allies had paid tribute and provided soldiers for war but were not considered citizens. Like their plebeian kindred years earlier, they wanted representation. It took a rebellion for things to change. Although the Senate had warned the Roman citizens that awarding these people citizenship would be dangerous, full citizenship was finally granted to all people (slaves excluded) in the entire Italian peninsula. Later, [Julius](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Julius/) [Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/caesar/) would extend citizenship beyond Italy and grant it to the people of Spain and Gaul.

About this time the city witnessed a serious threat to its very survival when Marcus Tillius [Cicero](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cicero/), the Roman statesman and poet, uncovered a conspiracy led by the Roman senator Lucius Sergius Catiline to overthrow the Roman government. Cicero also believed that the Republic was declining due to moral decay. Problems such as this together with fear and unrest came to the attention of three men in 60 BCE: Julius Caesar, Gnaeus Pompey and [Marcus Licinius Crassus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Marcus_Licinius_Crassus/). Crassus had gained fame by his defeat of [Spartacus](https://www.worldhistory.org/spartacus/) and his followers in 71 BCE. Pompey had distinguished himself in Spain as well as in the East. Caesar had proven himself as an able commander. Together, the three men formed what historians have named the [First Triumvirate](https://www.worldhistory.org/First_Triumvirate/) or Gang of Three. For almost a decade they controlled both consulships and military commands. After Caesar left the office of consul in 59 BCE, he and his army moved northward into Gaul and Germania. Pompey became the governor of Spain (although he ruled from Rome) while Crassus sought fame in the east where, unfortunately for him, he was eventually defeated and killed at the Battle of Carrhae.

Growing tension between Pompey and Caesar escalated. Pompey was jealous of Caesar's success and fame while Caesar wanted a return to politics. Eventually these differences brought them to battle, and in 48 BCE they met at Pharsalus. Pompey was defeated, escaping to [Egypt](https://www.worldhistory.org/egypt/) where he was killed by [Ptolemy XIII](https://www.worldhistory.org/Ptolemy_XIII_Theos_Philopator/). Caesar fulfilled his destiny by securing both the eastern provinces and northern Africa, returning to Rome a hero only to be declared dictator for life. Many of his enemies, as well as several allies, saw his new position as a serious threat to the foundation of the Republic, and despite a number of popular reforms, his assassination on the Ides of March in 44 BCE brought the Republic to its knees. His heir and step-son [Octavian](https://www.worldhistory.org/augustus/) subdued [Mark Antony](https://www.worldhistory.org/Mark_Antony/), eventually becoming the first emperor of Rome as [Augustus](https://www.worldhistory.org/augustus/). The Republic was gone and in its ashes rose the Roman Empire.

#### Editorial Review

This human-authored definition has been reviewed by our editorial team before publication to ensure accuracy, reliability and adherence to academic standards in accordance with our [editorial policy](https://www.worldhistory.org/static/editorial-policy/).

## Bibliography

- [Baker, S. *Ancient Rome.* BBC Books, 2007.](https://www.worldhistory.org/books/1846072840/)
- [Beard, M. *SPQR.* Liveright, 2015.](https://www.worldhistory.org/books/0871404230/)
- [Everitt, A. *The Rise of Rome.* Random House Trade Paperbacks, 2013.](https://www.worldhistory.org/books/0812978153/)
- [Gwynn, D.M. *The Roman Republic.* Oxford University Press, 2012.](https://www.worldhistory.org/books/0199595119/)
- [Hill, D. *Ancient Rome.* Parragon Books, 2016.](https://www.worldhistory.org/books/1405487941/)
- [Holland, T. *Rubicon.* Anchor, 2005.](https://www.worldhistory.org/books/1400078970/)
- [Hornblower, S. *The Oxford Classical Dictionary.* Oxford University Press, 2012.](https://www.worldhistory.org/books/0199545561/)
- [Roman Citizenship](https://www.ancient.eu/article/859/ "Roman Citizenship"), accessed 15 May 2020.
- [Roman Government](https://www.ancient.eu/Roman_Government/ "Roman Government"), accessed 15 May 2020.
- [Roman Religion](https://www.ancient.eu/Roman_Religion/ "Roman Religion"), accessed 15 May 2020.

## About the Author

Donald has taught Ancient, Medieval and U.S. History at Lincoln College (Normal, Illinois)and has always been and will always be a student of history, ever since learning about Alexander the Great. He is eager to pass knowledge on to his students.

## Timeline

- **753 BCE**: The legendary founding date of [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/).
- **534 BCE - 510 BCE**: Reign of [Lucius Tarquinius Superbus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Lucius_Tarquinius_Superbus/), last king of [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/).
- **509 BCE**: Quaestors become a prominent position in the [Roman Republic](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Republic/).
- **495 BCE**: [Lucius Tarquinius Superbus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Lucius_Tarquinius_Superbus/), last king of [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/), dies in exile at Cumae.
- **484 BCE**: The first [temple](https://www.worldhistory.org/temple/) of the [Dioscuri](https://www.worldhistory.org/Castor_and_Pollux/) (Castor & Pollux) is dedicated in [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/)'s [Forum Romanum](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Forum/) by Aulus Postumius following his victory over the Latins at the [Battle](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/battle/) of Lake Regillus.
- **450 BCE**: The number of [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) quaestors is increased to four and made open to plebians.
- **450 BCE**: The laws of the '[Twelve Tables](https://www.worldhistory.org/Twelve_Tables/)', the basis of [Roman law](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Law/), are compiled.
- **c. 440 BCE**: [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) quaestors are chosen by the assembly rather than the consuls.
- **367 BCE**: [Livy](https://www.worldhistory.org/livy/) mentions [Celtic](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) armies in Ancona and one such group moves against [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) once more.
- **343 BCE - 341 BCE**: First Samnite [War](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/) ([Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) vs. Samnites).
- **340 BCE - 338 BCE**: Latin [War](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/), victory for [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/).
- **334 BCE**: [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) signs a peace treaty with the Senones tribe.
- **326 BCE - 304 BCE**: Second Samnite [War](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/).
- **298 BCE - 290 BCE**: Third Samnite [War](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/). Victory for [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/), peace with the [Etruscans](https://www.worldhistory.org/Etruscan_Civilization/).
- **297 BCE**: [Celts](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) and Samnites join forces and defeat the Romans at Camertium.
- **c. 295 BCE**: In a [battle](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/battle/) lasting all day, Romans narrowly defeat a force of [Celts](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) and Samnites at Sentinum.
- **294 BCE**: A [Roman army](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Army/) led by L. Postimius Megellus defeats an army from [Etruscan](https://www.worldhistory.org/Etruscan_Civilization/) [Volsinii](https://www.worldhistory.org/volsinii/).
- **285 BCE**: [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) forces heavily defeat the Senones at Lake Vadimo.
- **285 BCE - 282 BCE**: [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) defeats the [Celts](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) in [Italy](https://www.worldhistory.org/italy/). Rome's dominance in central Italy is secured.
- **284 BCE**: Gauls of the Insubres and Boii tribes defeat the Romans at [Arretium](https://www.worldhistory.org/arretium/).
- **283 BCE**: [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) decisively defeats the Senones at Picenum.
- **283 BCE**: Romans defeat the [Etruscans](https://www.worldhistory.org/Etruscan_Civilization/) and [Celts](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) at lake Vadimo.
- **282 BCE**: A [Celtic](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) army with many youth among their ranks is again defeated by Romans.
- **280 BCE**: The Romans [conquer](https://www.worldhistory.org/warfare/) the [Etruscan](https://www.worldhistory.org/Etruscan_Civilization/) [cities](https://www.worldhistory.org/city/) of [Tarquinia](https://www.worldhistory.org/Tarquinia/), [Volsinii](https://www.worldhistory.org/volsinii/) and [Vulci](https://www.worldhistory.org/Vulci/).
- **280 BCE - 272 BCE**: [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) [war](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/) against [Tarentum](https://www.worldhistory.org/tarentum/). [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) conquers Tarentum. Rome's dominance in lower [Italy](https://www.worldhistory.org/italy/) is secured.
- **264 BCE - 241 BCE**: [First Punic War](https://www.worldhistory.org/First_Punic_War/). [Carthage](https://www.worldhistory.org/carthage/) cedes [Sicily](https://www.worldhistory.org/sicily/) to [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/).
- **241 BCE - 238 BCE**: The rebellion of the mercenaries: Unpaid mercenaries under the leadership of Mathos and Spendios rebel against [Carthage](https://www.worldhistory.org/carthage/). Despite a peace treaty, [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) seizes the opportunity to strip Carthage of Sardinia and Corsica.
- **229 BCE - 228 BCE**: [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) fights Illyrian pirates. Queen Teuta pays tribute to Rome.
- **225 BCE**: Two [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) armies surround and defeat a [Celtic](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) army at Telamon.
- **223 BCE**: Romans successfully campaign against [Celtic](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) tribes of Cisalpine [Gaul](https://www.worldhistory.org/gaul/).
- **222 BCE**: The [Celts](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) are defeated at Clastidium by [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) forces.
- **222 BCE**: [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) conquers Cisalpine [Gaul](https://www.worldhistory.org/gaul/) (modern-day Provence, France).
- **219 BCE**: Illyrian coast is under [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) control.
- **216 BCE**: "[Hannibal](https://www.worldhistory.org/hannibal/) ante portas." Hannibal directly threatens the [city](https://www.worldhistory.org/city/) of [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/), but cannot advance due to lack of supplies and reinforcements.
- **Aug 216 BCE**: [Hannibal](https://www.worldhistory.org/hannibal/) wins the [battle of Cannae](https://www.worldhistory.org/Battle_of_Cannae/), the worst defeat in [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) history.
- **c. 215 BCE - c. 216 BCE**: The Boii crush a [Roman army](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Army/) 25,000 strong at Litana. Victory was, in part, achieved by pushing precariously cut trees down atop the horrified Romans as they marched.
- **214 BCE - 205 BCE**: First Macedonian [War](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/): [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) defeats Philip V of [Macedon](https://www.worldhistory.org/macedon/).
- **204 BCE**: [Scipio Africanus](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Scipio_Africanus/) sails to North [Africa](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/africa/) in the [Second Punic War](https://www.worldhistory.org/Second_Punic_War/).
- **201 BCE**: [Syracuse](https://www.worldhistory.org/syracuse/) joins the [Roman Republic](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Republic/), province of [Sicily](https://www.worldhistory.org/sicily/) is formed.
- **200 BCE - 196 BCE**: Second Macedonian [War](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/): [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) victory.
- **193 BCE**: The Boii are defeated by the Romans, suffering, according to [Livy](https://www.worldhistory.org/livy/), 14,000 dead.
- **191 BCE**: Antiochus III and his army, including many Galatians, are defeated by [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) at Magnesia.
- **191 BCE - 134 BCE**: Various resistance movements against [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) in [Iberia](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/iberia/). Viriato leads the Lusitanians against Rome from 154 to 139 BC.
- **190 BCE**: [Battle](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/battle/) of Magnesia ad Sipylum, disastrous defeat for [Antiochos](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/antiochos/) III against Romans.
- **c. 188 BCE**: The treaty of Apamea Kibotos. Peace and alliance is established between the [Seleucid Empire](https://www.worldhistory.org/Seleucid_Empire/) and [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) joined by its allies, such as [Pergamon](https://www.worldhistory.org/pergamon/) and [Rhodes](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rhodes/). The Seleucids have to evacuate all the land and the [cities](https://www.worldhistory.org/city/) from [Asia Minor](https://www.worldhistory.org/Asia_Minor/) and to pay a huge [war](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/) indemnity.
- **172 BCE - 168 BCE**: Third Macedonian [War](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/): [Perseus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Perseus/) of [Macedon](https://www.worldhistory.org/macedon/) challenges [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) and is defeated.
- **149 BCE - 146 BCE**: [Third Punic War](https://www.worldhistory.org/Third_Punic_War/).
- **146 BCE**: [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) sacks [Corinth](https://www.worldhistory.org/corinth/) and dissolves the [Achaean league](https://www.worldhistory.org/Achaean_League/). [Greece](https://www.worldhistory.org/greece/) is ruled by Rome.
- **146 BCE**: [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) influence over [Greece](https://www.worldhistory.org/greece/) begins to rise.
- **137 BCE**: 4,000 Celtiberians trap a force of 20,000 Romans at Numantia forcing their surrender.
- **133 BCE**: [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) captures Numantia. End of Iberian resistance.
- **133 BCE**: Attalus III, the last king of [Pergamon](https://www.worldhistory.org/pergamon/), bequeathes the whole of Pergamon to [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/).
- **133 BCE**: Numantia falls to the Romans who besiege the [oppidum](https://www.worldhistory.org/oppidum/). Mass suicide ensues among many of the survivors. Land reforms by [Tiberius Gracchus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Gracchi_Brothers/).
- **125 BCE**: [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) intervenes on behalf of Massalia against the Saluvii [Celts](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/).
- **121 BCE**: [Gallia](https://www.worldhistory.org/gaul/) Narbonensis becomes a [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) province.
- **113 BCE**: Romans defeated at Noreia by the [Cimbri](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cimbri/).
- **109 BCE**: [Cimbri](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cimbri/) defeat a [Roman army](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Army/) under [Julius](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Julius/) Silanus.
- **106 BCE**: The governor of the [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) province of Macedonia, M. Minucius Rufus, celebrates his victory over a raid of the Dacians allied with the [Celtic](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) tribe of the Scordiscii in the Balkans.
- **106 BCE**: [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) statesman and orator [Cicero](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cicero/) is born.
- **105 BCE**: [Cimbri](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cimbri/), Teutons, and Ambrones are victorious at Arausio killing 60,000 Romans.
- **102 BCE**: [Marius](https://www.worldhistory.org/Gaius_Marius/), after reforming the [Roman army](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Army/), defeats the Teutons and Ambrones at Aquae Sextiae.
- **101 BCE**: At Vercellae the Romans crush the [Cimbri](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cimbri/).
- **91 BCE - 89 BCE**: [Social War](https://www.worldhistory.org/Social_War/) between [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) and its Italian allies. Italians want [Roman Citizenship](https://www.worldhistory.org/article/859/roman-citizenship/) and equal share in power. Only won by Rome by granting the Italian wishes.
- **89 BCE - 63 BCE**: Mithridatic Wars between [Mithridates VI](https://www.worldhistory.org/Mithridates_VI/) and [Roman Republic](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Republic/) .
- **88 BCE - 87 BCE**: First Civil [War](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/) between [Marius](https://www.worldhistory.org/Gaius_Marius/) and [Sulla](https://www.worldhistory.org/sulla/). First march on [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) by Sulla.
- **83 BCE**: [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) fights under the [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) dictator [Sulla](https://www.worldhistory.org/sulla/).
- **83 BCE - 82 BCE**: [Sulla](https://www.worldhistory.org/sulla/)'s second march on [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/). Mass Proscriptions.
- **80 BCE**: [Sulla](https://www.worldhistory.org/sulla/) is persuaded to give [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) his first [triumph](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Triumph/) in [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/).
- **72 BCE**: Crixos, a [Celt](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) and second in command under [Spartacus](https://www.worldhistory.org/spartacus/), is killed. 300 Romans are sacrificed in his honor.
- **71 BCE**: [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) is granted his second [triumph](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Triumph/) for his victories in Spain.
- **70 BCE**: [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) and [Crassus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Marcus_Licinius_Crassus/) are made consuls.
- **67 BCE**: The Gabinian [Law](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/law/) is passed, giving [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) great power to deal with pirates.
- **66 BCE**: The Manilian [Law](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/law/) is passed, giving [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) great power to deal with [Mithridates VI](https://www.worldhistory.org/Mithridates_VI/) of Pontus.
- **64 BCE**: [Galatia](https://www.worldhistory.org/galatia/) becomes a client state of [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/).
- **63 BCE**: The [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) general [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) defeats the [Seleucid](https://www.worldhistory.org/Seleucid_Empire/) Antiochus XIII and incorporates [Syria](https://www.worldhistory.org/syria/) as a province of the [Roman empire](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Empire/).
- **62 BCE**: [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) returns to [Italy](https://www.worldhistory.org/italy/), and disbands his army upon landing.
- **60 BCE - 53 BCE**: [First Triumvirate](https://www.worldhistory.org/First_Triumvirate/)' between [Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/caesar/), [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) and [Crassus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Marcus_Licinius_Crassus/).
- **58 BCE**: [Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/caesar/) attacks the Helvetii while on migration and defeats them.
- **58 BCE - 57 BCE**: [Cicero](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cicero/) is exiled from [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/).
- **58 BCE - 51 BCE**: [Julius Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/Julius_Caesar/)'s [conquest](https://www.worldhistory.org/warfare/) of [Gaul](https://www.worldhistory.org/gaul/).
- **56 BCE**: The navies of [Rome](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rome/) and the Veneti Gauls clash resulting in a [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) victory. This is the first recorded naval [battle](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/battle/) in the Atlantic Ocean.
- **55 BCE**: [Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/caesar/) attempts to invade [Britain](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Britain/).
- **54 BCE**: [Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/caesar/) successfully invades [Britain](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Britain/) but withdraws to [Gaul](https://www.worldhistory.org/gaul/).
- **54 BCE - 53 BCE**: [Ambiorix](https://www.worldhistory.org/ambiorix/) of the Eburones tribe destroys around 9,000 [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) soldiers at Atuatuca.
- **54 BCE - 43 CE**: [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) influence grows in [Britain](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Britain/) owing to [trade](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/trade/).
- **53 BCE**: [Battle](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/battle/) of Carrhae. [Crassus](https://www.worldhistory.org/Marcus_Licinius_Crassus/) is captured and executed by the Parthians.
- **52 BCE**: [Julius Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/Julius_Caesar/) is defeated at Gergovia by [Vercingetorix](https://www.worldhistory.org/vercingetorix/).
- **52 BCE**: After becoming trapped and besieged at Alesia, [Vercingetorix](https://www.worldhistory.org/vercingetorix/) surrenders to [Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/caesar/).
- **51 BCE**: [Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/caesar/)'s siege and capture of Uxellodunum ends the Gallic [War](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/).
- **49 BCE**: [Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/caesar/) crosses the [Rubicon](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Rubicon/). Civil [war](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/War/) between Caesar and [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/) begins.
- **49 BCE - 48 BCE**: Burebistas sends Acornion of Dionysopolis as ambassador to negotiate an alliance with [Pompey](https://www.worldhistory.org/pompey/).
- **46 BCE**: The Bellovaci unsuccessfully rise against [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) rule in Belgica.
- **44 BCE**: The Allobroges unsuccessfully rise against [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) rule in southern [Gaul](https://www.worldhistory.org/gaul/).
- **44 BCE**: [Caesar](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/caesar/) becomes dictator for life. On the 'Ides of March' (15th) he is killed by conspirators including Brutus and Cassius. [Octavian](https://www.worldhistory.org/augustus/), son of Caesar's niece Atia, is posthumously adopted as his heir.
- **43 BCE**: [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) statesman and orator [Cicero](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cicero/) dies.
- **43 BCE - 36 BCE**: [Second Triumvirate](https://www.worldhistory.org/Second_Triumvirate/): [Antony](https://www.worldhistory.org/Mark_Antony/), [Octavian](https://www.worldhistory.org/augustus/), and Lepidus (official approval by the [Roman Senate](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Senate/)). Mass proscriptions including [Cicero](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cicero/).
- **42 BCE**: [Octavian](https://www.worldhistory.org/augustus/) and [Antony](https://www.worldhistory.org/Mark_Antony/) defeat Republicans under Brutus and Cassius at the [Battle](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/battle/) of [Philippi](https://www.worldhistory.org/Philippi/) ([Greece](https://www.worldhistory.org/greece/)).
- **36 BCE**: [Octavian](https://www.worldhistory.org/augustus/) strips Lepidus of all power but Pontifex Maximus (supreme priest). Lepidus dies of old age in 12 BC.
- **33 BCE**: The Belgic Morini and the [Celts](https://www.worldhistory.org/celt/) of Aquitania unsuccessfully rise against [Roman](https://www.worldhistory.org/disambiguation/Roman/) rule.
- **2 Sep 31 BCE**: The [Battle of Actium](https://www.worldhistory.org/Battle_of_Actium/). [Octavian](https://www.worldhistory.org/augustus/) defeats [Mark Antony](https://www.worldhistory.org/Mark_Antony/) and [Cleopatra VII](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cleopatra_VII/).
- **27 BCE**: [Octavian](https://www.worldhistory.org/augustus/) is given extraordinary powers and the name [Augustus](https://www.worldhistory.org/augustus/) by the [Roman Senate](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Senate/).

## Questions & Answers

### When did the Roman Republic overthrow the last king, Tarquinius Superbus?
The last Roman king, Tarquinius Superbus was overthrown in 510 BCE.

### Who were the descendants of the founder of Rome, Aeneas of Troy?
The descendants of Aeneas of Troy, the founder of Rome, were Romulus and Remus the illegitimate sons of Mars, the god of war, and the princess Rhea Silvia. 

### Which were the two classes of Roman citizens?
The two classes of Roman citizens were the patricians and the plebeians.

### Aside from the Roman Senate, which were the two popular assemblies?
Aside from the Roman Senate, the two popular assemblies were the Comitia Centuriata and Consilium Plebis (Council of the Plebs). The Comitia Centuriata enacted laws, elected consuls, and declared war. The Concilium Plebis conveyed the wishes of the plebeians via their elected tribunes.

### What was the name of the series of wars fought between Roman and Carthage?
The name of the series of wars between Rome and Carthage was called the Punic Wars.

### Who was assassinated on the Ides of March?
Julius Caesar was assassinated on the Ides of March in 44 BCE.


## External Links

- [Interactive Map of the Roman Empire and Celtic Lands](http://resourcesforhistory.com/map.htm)
- [Rise of Roman Republic](http://ed.ted.com/on/LkLBl809)
- [In Our Time, The Roman Republic](http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p004y26w)
- [In Our Time, The Roman Republic](https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p004y26w)
- [The History of Rome](https://thehistoryofrome.typepad.com/)
- [The Roman Republic | Essay | The Metropolitan Museum of Art | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History](https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/romr/hd_romr.htm)

## Cite This Work

### APA
Wasson, D. L. (2016, April 07). Roman Republic. *World History Encyclopedia*. [https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman\_Republic/](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Republic/)
### Chicago
Wasson, Donald L.. "Roman Republic." *World History Encyclopedia*, April 07, 2016. [https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman\_Republic/](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Republic/).
### MLA
Wasson, Donald L.. "Roman Republic." *World History Encyclopedia*, 07 Apr 2016, [https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman\_Republic/](https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Republic/).

## License & Copyright

Submitted by [Donald L. Wasson](https://www.worldhistory.org/user/DWasson/ "User Page: Donald L. Wasson"), published on 07 April 2016. The copyright holder has published this content under the following license: [Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/deed.en). This license lets others remix, tweak, and build upon this content non-commercially, as long as they credit the author and license their new creations under the identical terms. When republishing on the web a hyperlink back to the original content source URL must be included. Please note that content linked from this page may have different licensing terms.