Political Factors

• Rome was very progressive when it came to politics. Rome was set apart from many other countries during this time period. Rather than having kings rule the citizens would meet to elect their officials. Elected officials consisted of judges magistrates and tax collectors. These officials were supervised by the senate. The senate usually consisted of the leading citizens of Rome, which were about 600 men. These men were a major part in establishing new laws for the country, and handling any financial issues.

•  Among the senate’s other obligations, they were delegated the task of electing an emperor. The emperor was supported by the army along with some of the senators and other elite advisors. This extreme support led the emperor to have the most authority in Rome.

•  The Palazzo Senatorio was the primary meeting place of the senators. It was built by Michelangleo in the 13^th and 14^th century.  It also holds the archives of acient Rome.