The Emperor
Emperors were the leaders in the Roman Empire. In the beginning becoming emperor was an inherited occupation, like a prince becoming a king. Many of the Emperors family members had used this law to try to put who they wanted on the throne. Often, extreme measures were used. The Emperors were leaders for life. Because of this, they were often in danger of being murdered. Even though Julius Caesar was not an emperor, his death was a great example of this. After his battle for power, Julius Caesar had finally become Rome's leader. However, the senate did not like the amount of power he had and he was murdered. Emperors had to be careful to please the senate and the people, so that they wouldn't be permanently disposed of.
This image was found at Roman Power and Roman Imperial Sculpture. This is a picture of Emperor Augustus. I used this image to give a visual aid as to what an Emperor would look like.
Responsibilities:
- Military Commander
- Priest of Empire
- Make laws
- Support building projects
- Support sports and other activities of the Roman Empire
Rights:
- When dead, he would normally be declared a god
- Have temples build in his honor
- Only person in Rome allowed to wear a purple toga
The Senate
Rome’s politics changed a lot throughout the years. However, in the Monarchy, the Republic, and the Empire, the senate stayed. Senators were very respected in Roman culture. It was an honor to say that you had served as a senator in Rome. In the earlier days of Rome, only patricians could become senators. However, after the Conflict of Orders, plebeians also gained the right to participate. Senators didn't have as much direct power as the Emperor; however, they had ways of getting what they wanted. When Julius Caesar was dictator in the Republic, he had accumulated too much power. The senate did not like this and wanted more power for themselves, so they murdered him.
This is a picture of busts of Roman senators ( busts are statues that only show the face, neck, and upper torso). I used this picture to depict what Roman Senators looked like.
Responsibilities:
- Prepared Legislation
- Managed Empire finances
- Handled relationships with other nations
- Oversaw the state religion
Rights:
- Could make decrees
- Only people allowed to wear a white toga with a purple stripe