The Roman Republic: Separation of Powers - History of Global Democracies Series | Academy 4 Social Change

The Roman Republic: Lesson Plan

Topic

The Republic is the period in Roman history dating from the end of the r eign of Rome’s last king in 509 B.C. to the ascension of Augustus in 27 B.C. tha t marked the beginning of the Roman Empire. During this time, elite Roman men pursuin g political careers tried to work their way up the highly competitive hierarchy of political offices called the cursus honorum in order to gain more prestige and power. The highest annually occurring office in Rome was that of the consul, held by two men each year. In addition to Rome’s various magistrates, there was a powerful advisory body called the senate, as well as citizen assemblies that elected officeholders and voted on proposed laws, trials, and military decisions.

Possible subjects/classes Time needed

● Government ● History 30-45 minutes ● Politics ● Philosophy

Video link: https://academy4sc.org/topic/the-roman-republic-separation-of-powers/

Objective: What will students know/be able to do at the end of class?

Students will be able to... ● Describe the three major areas of the government under the Roman Republic. ● Explain how the Roman Republic incorporated the concept of separation of powers.

Key Concepts & Vocabulary republic, cursus honorum, consul, senate, assembly

Materials Needed

Worksheet, computers

The Roman Republic: Separation of Powers - History of Global Democracies Series | Academy 4 Social Change

Before you watch

Turn & Talk: What does the phrase “separation of powers” mean to you? What about “checks and balances?” Have students discuss their answers in small groups.

While you watch

Complete the “While you watch” section of the worksheet.

After you watch/discussion questions

1. What are some ways in which the government of the United States reflects the legacy of the Roman Republic? 2. Why is it important to have limits on political power? 3. What do you think are the defining features of a republic, and how does a republic compare to a democracy?

Activity Ideas

● Compare & Contrast: Have students make a chart comparing and contrasting the government of the United States with that of the Roman Republic. If desired, give students time to conduct research on computers. ● Short Essay: Describe how the concept of separation of powers was incorporated into the Roman government and explain its importance. Alternatively, have students use the chart they made comparing and contrasting Rome with the United States as a basis for a short essay.

Sources/places to learn more

1. Boatwright, Mary T., et al. A Brief History of the Romans . 2nd ed., New York, Oxford University Press, 2014. 2. The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. "Senate." Encyclopaedia Britannica , 2019, www.britannica.com/topic/Senate-Roman-history. 3. Polybius. Histories , Book 6.11-18. Translated by Evelyn S. Shuckburgh, New York, Macmillan, 1889. Perseus Project , www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.01.023 4%3Abook%3D6%3Achapter%3D11. 4. Wasson, Donald L. "Roman Republic." Ancient History Encyclopedia , Ancient History Encyclopedia, Apr. 2016, www.ancient.eu/Roman_Republic/ .