Council of Ten meaning

The Council of Ten was a powerful council in the Republic of Venice during the Renaissance period.


Council of Ten definitions

Word backwards licnuoC fo neT
Part of speech The phrase "Council of Ten" is a noun phrase.
Syllabic division Coun-cil of Ten
Plural The plural of the word "Council of Ten" is "Councils of Ten".
Total letters 12
Vogais (4) o,u,i,e
Consonants (6) c,n,l,f,t

The Council of Ten was a governing body in the Republic of Venice that existed from 1310 to 1797. This secretive and powerful institution was responsible for both foreign and domestic policy, as well as intelligence gathering and counterintelligence.

Origins and Structure

The Council of Ten was established in response to a conspiracy to overthrow the Venetian government. Initially comprised of ten members chosen by lot and serving for one month, the council's structure evolved over time. Eventually, it consisted of seventeen members with a term of office lasting several months.

Powers and Functions

The Council of Ten had broad authority to investigate and punish individuals deemed a threat to the state. They could order arrests, conduct secret trials, and impose sentences without the right to appeal. The members of the council operated anonymously, wearing black robes and masks to conceal their identities.

Role in Venetian Society

The Council of Ten played a crucial role in maintaining order and stability in Venice. By acting swiftly and decisively against dissenters, they instilled fear in the population and deterred potential agitators. Despite their controversial methods, the council was seen as necessary for preserving the republic's security.

Legacy and Decline

Over time, the Council of Ten became increasingly corrupt and abusive, leading to its eventual downfall. In 1797, Napoleon Bonaparte conquered Venice, and the council was disbanded. Although it no longer exists, the Council of Ten remains a symbol of the unique political system and culture of the Venetian Republic.

Republic of Venice | Intelligence gathering | Counterintelligence | Conspiracy


Council of Ten Examples

  1. The Council of Ten was a governing body in the Republic of Venice during the Renaissance.
  2. The Council of Ten was responsible for espionage, internal security, and the judiciary in Venice.
  3. The Council of Ten played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Venice.
  4. The Council of Ten was notorious for its secret proceedings and use of political assassination.
  5. The Council of Ten was feared by the citizens of Venice for its power and influence.
  6. The Council of Ten was known for its strict enforcement of laws and regulations in Venice.
  7. The Council of Ten met in a secret chamber in the Doge's Palace in Venice.
  8. The Council of Ten was abolished in 1797 following the fall of the Venetian Republic.
  9. The Council of Ten's actions were often shrouded in mystery and speculation.
  10. The Council of Ten's decisions had far-reaching consequences for the citizens of Venice.


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  • Updated 20/06/2024 - 15:25:13