Why did Roman citizens have to pay taxes served in the military and serve as jurors
Roman citizens were required to pay taxes, serve in the military, and serve as jurors for several reasons:
1. Financial obligations: Taxes were necessary to fund the various operations of the Roman state, including the military. The Roman Empire was vast and required significant resources to maintain its armies, infrastructure, and social programs. Taxes were collected from citizens to ensure a steady income for the state.
2. Defense of the empire: Roman citizens were obligated to serve in the military as a means of defense and protection for the empire. The Roman Empire faced threats from external enemies and required a standing army to maintain control over its vast territory. Citizens were expected to contribute to this defense by serving in the military when called upon.
3. Civic participation: Roman citizens were expected to actively participate in the governance of the state. Serving as jurors in the Roman legal system was considered an important aspect of citizenship, ensuring fair and impartial judgment for legal matters. It was seen as a civic duty to participate in the administration of justice.
4. Social cohesion: By requiring citizens to pay taxes, serve in the military, and participate in the legal system, the Roman government aimed to foster a sense of shared responsibility and unity among its citizens. These obligations helped in maintaining social order and stability within the empire.
Overall, the requirements of paying taxes, military service, and serving as jurors were part of the wider social and civic obligations of Roman citizenship. It ensured the financial stability, defense, and functioning of the state, as well as the active participation and integration of its citizens in the governance of the empire.