The form of the Constitution: Practice Questions

Which Roman magistrate held the specific power to veto the actions of other magistrates and propose legislation to the concilium plebis during the breakdown of the Republic?

During the breakdown of the Roman Republic, what was the primary purpose of the First Triumvirate formed between Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus?

Following the restoration of the cursus honorum under Sulla, which subsequent legislative action in 70 BC was most significant in dismantling his constitutional reforms regarding the power of the tribuni plebis?

Which political faction in the late Roman Republic typically relied on the support of the traditionalist Senate and sought to maintain the status quo?

In the context of the breakdown of the Roman Republic, what was the primary purpose of the comitia centuriata within the Roman constitution?

Identify two ways in which Sulla attempted to restore the power of the Senate during his dictatorship.

Briefly describe how patron-client relationships and the use of largesse contributed to political success for individuals during the breakdown of the Roman Republic.

What were the primary aims of the First Triumvirate formed by Pompey, Caesar, and Crassus in 60 BC?

The Breakdown of the Late Republic, 88–31 BC

The First Triumvirate was a pivotal development in the disintegration of the Roman Republic.

a) Name the three individuals who formed the First Triumvirate in 60 BC.
b) Briefly describe one primary aim that this informal alliance sought to achieve for its members.

The Breakdown of the Late Republic, 88–31 BC

The political career of Marcus Tullius Cicero was defined by his attempts to preserve the concordia ordinum (harmony of the orders).

a) Explain the significance of Cicero's role during the Catilinarian Conspiracy of 63 BC.
b) Discuss how Cicero's relationship with Pompey influenced his political standing during the 50s BC.
c) Analyze why Cicero's opposition to Mark Antony eventually led to his proscription by the Second Triumvirate.