The permanent council of Rome’s governing class and the central deliberative institution of the Republic.
Overview
The Senate was not a modern legislature, yet its authority shaped war, diplomacy, finance, religion, provincial administration, and the conduct of magistrates. Membership was largely composed of former officeholders.
Why It Matters
Its power rested on continuity, experience, prestige, and control of political procedure. During the late Republic, conflicts over who truly represented the state repeatedly weakened senatorial authority.
In Roman Practice
Senatorial decrees carried enormous weight but were not identical to statutes. The Senate depended upon magistrates to convene it and implement its decisions.