The Roman Republic began after Rome drove out the Etruscans. It established a system of government with citizens having certain rights. The leaders were called representatives who served in the governing body known as the Senate, which was initially comprised solely of patricians. As Rome grew, the plebeians demanded more rights and protections against the power of the patricians. The Republic fought three Punic Wars over 120 years against the city-state of Carthage, eventually defeating them. Wealth poured into Rome but also increased inequality, weakening the Republic. Julius Caesar's conquests and accumulation of power threatened the patricians and he was assassinated, effectively ending the 500 year old Roman Republic.

1. Roman Republic

3. 1. Patricians

4. 2. Plebians

10. Dictator