The document summarizes the political structure and history of the early Roman Republic. It describes the two main social classes of patricians and plebeians and the government positions of consuls and praetors. It then outlines the plebeians' gradual acquisition of political power and rights over the 5th to 3rd centuries BC. It also briefly mentions the role of dictators and the Twelve Tables legal code. Finally, it provides an overview of the three Punic Wars between Rome and Carthage where Rome ultimately defeated Carthage and expanded its territory across the Mediterranean.

1. The Roman Republic

2. Two Classes - Patricians (wealthy landowners) - Plebeians (middle class)

3. Two Consuls - could veto each other Praetors - interpreted the law, acted as judges Senate - 300 patrician men, served for life

4. Plebeians wanted more involvement in the gov’t. 494 B.C. – strike = shared power 471 B.C. – Council of Plebs 300’s B.C. – allowed to become consuls 287 B.C. - Could pass laws, all male citizens equal

5. Temporary Served during emergencies Appointed by the Senate Cincinnatus Best known early Roman dictator Farmer, served for 16 days

6. Twelve tables Rome’s 1 st code of laws Applied only to Roman citizens Rule of Law Law should apply equally to everyone

7. Punic Wars First Punic War Rome and Carthage want control of Sicily Rome built a navy Rome won (1 – 0)

8. Second Punic War Carthage expands into Spain Hannibal’s army, elephants Scipio defeats Hannibal (Carthage) Rome won (2 – 0)

9. Third Punic War Rome burns Carthage Rome won (3 -0) Rome expands across the Mediterranean Sea