Decemvirates meaning

Decemvirates refers to a group of ten magistrates or rulers in ancient Rome.


Decemvirates definitions

Word backwards setarivmeced
Part of speech The word "decemvirates" is a noun.
Syllabic division de-cem-vi-rates
Plural The plural of the word decemvirates is decemvirates.
Total letters 12
Vogais (3) e,i,a
Consonants (7) d,c,m,v,r,t,s

Decemvirates

Definition

Decemvirates were a body of ten magistrates in ancient Rome who were appointed to draft laws. This system was established in 451 BC and lasted for only three years, during which time the decemvirates created the Twelve Tables, the foundation of Roman law.

Composition

The decemvirates were chosen from the patrician class, and they held both executive and judicial powers. They replaced the regular magistrates and were entrusted with the task of compiling Roman laws in a clear and concise manner. This was a significant development in Roman legal history, as it helped to codify the laws that had previously been unwritten and somewhat arbitrary.

Conflict and Abolishment

The decemvirates were not without controversy, as they eventually began to abuse their power. One of the most infamous incidents occurred when one of the decemvirates, Appius Claudius, attempted to force a woman named Virginia into marriage against her will. This led to a popular uprising and the resignation of the decemvirates.

Legacy

Despite their brief and controversial tenure, the decemvirates left a lasting impact on Roman law. The Twelve Tables that they created became the basis for all future Roman legislation, and their attempt to establish a written legal code demonstrated the importance of clear and transparent laws in a society.

Overall, the decemvirates played a crucial role in the development of Roman legal tradition and served as a stepping stone towards a more structured and organized legal system. While their time in power was short-lived, their legacy endured in the subsequent legal reforms of the Roman Republic and Empire.


Decemvirates Examples

  1. The decemvirates were a group of ten magistrates in ancient Rome.
  2. During the early Roman Republic, the decemvirates were responsible for drafting the Twelve Tables of Roman law.
  3. The decemvirates were chosen to govern Rome in times of crisis.
  4. The decemvirates held significant political power in ancient Roman society.
  5. The actions of the decemvirates had a lasting impact on Roman legal and political institutions.
  6. The decemvirates were abolished after a period of tyranny and abuse of power.
  7. The decemvirates were seen as a unique form of government in Roman history.
  8. The decemvirates were tasked with overseeing the administration of justice in Rome.
  9. The decemvirates were historically significant for their role in shaping early Roman governance.
  10. The decemvirates were a temporary measure in Roman political history.


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  • Updated 06/07/2024 - 20:49:00