Following are brief definitions/explanations for 14 words or phrases as they pertain to studying the Roman Republic and, later, the Roman Empire. They are written in a style that fifth grade history students studying Roman times can understand. Here are the words/terms that will be defined: Centurion; Legion; Consul; Dictator; Republic; Imperator; Paterfamilias; Patrician; Plebian; Pax Romana; Tribute; Tribune; Triumvirate; Veni, vidi, vici.
Centurion: A centurion was a Roman army officer in charge of about 100 soldiers. They were brave leaders and helped keep the soldiers organized.
Legion: A legion was a large group of Roman soldiers, usually about 5,000 men. It was the main fighting force of the Roman army.
Consul: A consul was one of two leaders elected each year to run the Roman Republic. They made important decisions and led the army.
Dictator: In ancient Rome, a dictator was a leader given full control for a short time during emergencies. They had a lot of power but only for a limited time, like six months.
Republic: The Roman Republic was a time when Rome was ruled by elected officials, not by kings. Citizens voted to choose their leaders.
Imperator: Imperator was a title given to Roman generals after a big military victory. Later, it became a title for emperors.
Paterfamilias: The paterfamilias was the head of a Roman family, usually the oldest man. He had control over the family and made important decisions.
Patrician: Patricians were the wealthy, noble families in Rome. They had a lot of power and were often the leaders of the government.
Plebeian: Plebeians were the common people of Rome. They were farmers, merchants, and workers who didn’t have as much power as the patricians.
Pax Romana: Pax Romana means "Roman Peace." It was a period of about 200 years when Rome was mostly peaceful and stable.
Tribute: A tribute was a payment made to Rome by a conquered area or group. It could be money, crops, or other goods.
Tribune: A tribune was an official who represented the plebeians. They protected the rights of the common people and could veto unfair laws.
Triumvirate: A triumvirate was a group of three powerful leaders who shared control of the Roman government for a period of time.
Veni, vidi, vici: This famous phrase means "I came, I saw, I conquered." It was said by Julius Caesar after a quick and easy victory in battle.
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