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Warm-up 3-3 - Ancient Rome
Read Pages 10-11 in the textbook
1. What is a Republic and how did Rome become a
Republic?
2. What were the 12 tables, who were they
important to and why were they important?
3. What was the Roman Senate?
4. Why is Roman law important to us today? Give
examples of important Roman Laws used today.
5. What are Rome’s greatest legacies?
Ancient Rome Answers
1. What is a Republic and how did Rome become a
Republic?
A republic is a form of government in which power rests with the citizens who
have a right to elect leaders to make the decisions. In 509 BC, Roman
aristocrats overthrew a harsh king. They set up a new government, calling it a
republic.
2. What were the 12 tables, who were they important
to and why were they important?
The twelve tables were Roman laws that were carved into stone and placed on
public display. They were an important victory for the plebians, and were
important because laws were now written down, which gave every citizen the
right to be protected under the law and that laws would be fairly administered.
3. What was the Roman Senate?
The Senate was one of three legislative houses, which were made up with the
Patricians (higher social status). The Senate controlled foreign and financial
policies and could create a dictator (for 6mos) in times of crisis. All other
citizens made up the other two assemblies.
4. Why is Roman law important to us today? Give
examples of important Roman laws used today.
Since the Romans spread their laws throughout the empire many places still use
it today. These include: the rights for citizens to have equal treatment under the
law, innocent until proven guilty, burden of proof resting with the accuser, and
not allowing unreasonable or grossly unfair laws.
5. What are Rome’s greatest legacies?
The idea of a republic; individuals were citizens of the state, not a subject of the
monarch; the laws should be applied equally and impartially to all citizens; and
written laws are some of Rome’s greatest legacies.