Why were tribunes of the plebs so powerful and Roman government?
The tribunes of the plebs were powerful in the Roman government due to a number of reasons:
1. Protection of the Plebeians: The primary role of the tribunes was to represent and protect the rights and interests of the plebeians, who were the common people of Rome. They were especially concerned with safeguarding the plebeians from the oppression of the patricians (the aristocracy). This support gave the tribunes a strong base of popular support and influence.
2. Veto Power (ius intercessionis): The tribunes had the power to veto any decision or law made by other magistrates, including the consuls and the senate. This power allowed the tribunes to block legislation that they deemed harmful or unjust to the plebeians. It gave them significant leverage in negotiations and enabled them to protect the plebeians' interests.
3. Sacrosanctity and Inviolability: The tribunes possessed sacrosanctity, which meant that harming or interfering with them in any way was considered sacrilegious and a severe offense. This inviolability protected them from physical harm and intimidation, ensuring their ability to exercise their power without fear of retribution.
4. Popular Assemblies: The tribunes had the authority to call and preside over the plebeian assemblies, such as the Concilium Plebis and the Tribal Assembly. These assemblies had the power to pass laws and elect certain magistrates. By controlling the agenda and process of these assemblies, the tribunes had a direct influence on the legislative and electoral processes.
5. Right of Assistance (auxilium): The tribunes could summon and utilize the Roman people's assistance (auxilium) to enforce their decisions or to counteract the actions of other magistrates. This right allowed them to mobilize the common people against those who threatened the interests of the plebeians or disregarded their rights.
6. Immunity from Prosecution: The tribunes were immune from prosecution during their term of office, protecting them from legal action that could hinder or incapacitate their ability to exercise their power.
Overall, the combination of their role as protectors of the plebeians, the veto power, sacrosanctity, control of assemblies, right of assistance, and immunity from prosecution all contributed to the substantial power of the tribunes of the plebs in the Roman government.