Roman Senate

The Roman Senate was a key political institution in ancient Rome, composed of elite citizens, primarily from noble families. Established in the early Republic, it advised the consuls (the top leaders) on legislation, foreign policy, and military matters. Senators held significant power, influencing laws and governance, and their role evolved over time, especially during the transition to the Empire. While the Senate initially represented the interests of the patrician class, it became a symbol of Roman authority and tradition, despite gradually losing power to emperors as Rome transitioned from a republic to an empire.