Ancient quarters of Rome
The Roman Kingdom, also known as the Roman Monarchy or the Regal Period, represents the earliest phase of Roman history. According to tradition, it began with the founding of Rome in 753 BC and ended with the establishment of the Roman Republic in 509 BC. This era was characterized by the rule of kings, a foundational government structure, and the gradual emergence of Roman identity and institutions. However, due to the lack of contemporary records, most of what is known about the kingdom comes from later historical accounts.
Origins of Rome
The location of Rome played a crucial role in its development. Situated on the banks of the Tiber River, the site included a natural ford, allowing for trade and communication. The Palatine Hill and its surrounding elevations provided defensible positions, essential for a nascent settlement in a competitive region. The fertile lands of the Latium Plain supported agriculture, ensuring a steady food supply and economic growth.
The foundation myth of Rome attributes its origin to the twin brothers Romulus and Remus, who were said to be the sons of the god Mars and the Vestal Virgin Rhea Silvia. According to legend, they were abandoned and later raised by a she-wolf. After a dispute over the location of the city, Romulus killed Remus and became the first king of Rome. He is credited with establishing the initial political and religious institutions that defined Roman governance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Romulus and the Founding of Rome
The Kings of Rome
The traditional accounts state that Rome was ruled by seven kings, each contributing to the city’s development.
Romulus (753–716 BC)
Romulus is credited with organizing the Roman Senate, establishing the Roman legions, and instituting the first laws. He also orchestrated the infamous abduction of Sabine women to secure wives for his male followers, an event that led to a union between the Romans and the Sabines.
Numa Pompilius (715–672 BC)
A Sabine king, Numa focused on religious and legal institutions. He established many priesthoods, introduced the Vestal Virgins to Rome, and reformed the religious calendar. His reign was marked by peace and spiritual development.
Numa portrayed on a 48 BC denarius.
Tullus Hostilius (672–640 BC)
Tullus was a warrior king who expanded Roman influence through military conquest. He destroyed Alba Longa, Rome’s rival, and integrated its people into Roman society. His reign emphasized Rome’s transition from a small settlement to a dominant power in Latium.
Ancus Marcius (640–616 BC)
Ancus Marcius continued the policies of expansion and fortification. He built Rome’s first bridge, the Pons Sublicius, and established the port of Ostia, which became a vital trade hub. His reign solidified Rome’s control over the lower Tiber region.
Lucius Tarquinius Priscus (616–578 BC)
An Etruscan by origin, Tarquinius Priscus introduced elements of Etruscan culture to Rome. He expanded the Senate, initiated major construction projects, and laid the foundations for the Circus Maximus, a massive entertainment venue.
Servius Tullius (578–534 BC)
Servius Tullius is credited with implementing Rome’s first census and social classification system. He divided Roman society into classes based on wealth, creating a structured political and military system. He also built the Servian Wall, strengthening the city’s defenses.
Lucius Tarquinius Superbus (534–509 BC)
The last king of Rome, Tarquinius Superbus, ruled as a tyrant, ignoring the Senate and relying on force to maintain control. His rule ended when his son’s crime against the noblewoman Lucretia led to a popular revolt. The uprising, led by Lucius Junius Brutus, resulted in the expulsion of Tarquinius and the establishment of the Roman Republic.
Political Structure of the Roman Kingdom
Monarchical Authority
The Roman king held supreme authority in military, religious, and legal matters. He was elected by the people and granted imperium, the power to command and enforce laws. Unlike later emperors, kings were not hereditary rulers; each was chosen through a process involving the Senate and the Curiate Assembly.
The Senate and Assemblies
The Senate served as an advisory council, composed of patricians, the aristocratic class. The Curiate Assembly, consisting of Roman citizens organized into thirty curiae, held the power to ratify laws and elect kings.
Religious Role of the King
The king also acted as the chief priest of Rome. He controlled religious rituals, consulted omens, and ensured the favor of the gods. Numa Pompilius’ religious reforms institutionalized many of these practices.
The Military of the Roman Kingdom
The army was primarily composed of citizen-soldiers, organized into legions. It was divided into centuries and maniples, tactical units that would later form the backbone of Rome’s military dominance. Kings such as Tullus Hostilius and Tarquinius Priscus expanded and professionalized the army.
The Roman Kingdom was a formative period that established many of the traditions and institutions that defined Roman civilization.
The monarchy saw Rome’s territorial expansion through military campaigns against neighboring Latin and Etruscan cities. These conflicts established Rome as a regional power by the end of the kingdom period.
Transition to the Republic
The reign of Tarquinius Superbus ended in turmoil. His disregard for Roman customs and the Senate led to growing resentment. His son’s assault on Lucretia, a noblewoman, incited an uprising led by Brutus and Collatinus. The revolt expelled the Tarquin dynasty and led to the formation of the Republic.
Rome became a Republic, led by elected consuls instead of kings, and developed a system of checks and balances with the Senate and popular assemblies holding power.
The Republic was founded in 509 BC, with the appointment of consuls to replace the king. These magistrates shared power and were elected annually, preventing the concentration of authority in one individual. This new system laid the foundation for Rome’s future governance.
Legacy of the Roman Kingdom
The Roman Kingdom’s political, religious, and military institutions persisted and evolved throughout Roman history. The Senate, the concept of imperium, and the influence of the king as a religious leader shaped the Republic and later the Empire. The monarchy’s impact was felt long after its fall, setting the stage for Rome’s expansion and governance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many kings ruled Rome, and how long did the monarchy last?
According to tradition, seven kings ruled over a period of approximately 243 years, though modern scholars question this timeline.
What were the sources of information about the Roman Kingdom?
Most accounts come from later historians like Livy, Plutarch, and Dionysius of Halicarnassus, as no contemporary records survived due to destruction by the Gauls in 390 BC.
READ MORE: Greatest Roman Historians and their Major Works
How was the king chosen?
After the death of a king, the Senate appointed an interrex, who nominated a candidate. The Curiate Assembly voted to approve the nominee, and his rule was confirmed through religious auspices.
What powers did the king have?
The king held supreme military, executive, judicial, and religious authority, possessing imperium, the right to command armies, legislate, judge legal cases, and serve as Rome’s chief priest.
What was the role of the Senate?
The Senate served as an advisory council to the king but had no legislative or executive authority. It could, however, veto laws passed by the Curiate Assembly.
What were the main responsibilities of the king?
The king was the commander of the military, chief judge, high priest, and ultimate authority on legislation. He appointed officials, led religious ceremonies, and could declare war with Senate approval.
How did the Roman monarchy end?
The last king, Tarquinius Superbus, was overthrown in 509 BC following his son’s crime against Lucretia, leading to the establishment of the Roman Republic.
What role did religion play in the monarchy?
The king was the head of state religion, responsible for augury (interpreting omens), conducting rituals, and maintaining Rome’s religious institutions.
What were the major achievements of the Roman kings?
Romulus founded Rome and established its institutions, Numa Pompilius introduced religious reforms, Tullus Hostilius expanded Rome militarily, Ancus Marcius founded the port of Ostia, Tarquinius Priscus initiated large-scale infrastructure projects, Servius Tullius reformed Rome’s class system, and Tarquinius Superbus built the Temple of Jupiter.
