American System -- based on balance
of powers/functions
Executive |
Legislative |
Judicial |
President |
Congress |
Supreme Court |
Note: The only legitimate interest is that of the people
Roman System -- based on balance of interests
Monarchical |
Aristocratic |
Democratic |
2 Consuls
+ other magistrates |
Senate |
Assembly of Tribes
Tribune |
| Directed government and army
Acted as judges
Could issue edicts
Acted as chief priest |
Controlled state budget
Could pass laws |
Approved/rejected laws
Decided on War
Tribune could veto actions of magistrate
Acted as final court |
| Basis of power:
possess imperium, the
right to rule
need for leadership |
Basis of power:
members were richest men
in Rome. |
Basis of power:
provided most of the
soldiers |
| Limits on power:
one year term
each could veto |
Limits on power:
could not control army
needed majority as soldiers. |
Limits on power:
Could not suggest laws
often paid as clients by the elite |
Source:
Chart by Paul Halsall
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