Overview
Early Rome was not self-governing, and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state. The king possessed absolute power over the people. The Senate was a weak oligarchy, capable of exercising only minor administrative powers, so that Rome was ruled by an Etruscan absolute monarchy. While Rome herself had a Senate, its main function was to carry out and administer the wishes of the King.
The insignia of the king was twelve lictors wielding the fasces, a throne of a Curule chair, the purple Toga Picta, red shoes, and a white diadem around the head. Only the king could wear a purple toga.
The supreme power of the state was vested in the Rex, whose position made him the:
| Role | Description |
|---|---|
| Head of State | served as the chief representative of Rome in its relations with foreign powers and received all foreign ambassadors. |
| Head of Government | served as the chief executive with the power to enforce the laws, managed all state owned property, disposed of conquered territory, and oversaw all public works. |
| Commander in Chief | commander of the Roman military with the sole power to levy and organize the legions, to appoint military leaders, and to conduct war. |
| Chief Priest | served as official representative of Rome and her people before the Roman gods with the power of general administrative control over the Roman religion. |
| Chief Legislator | formulated and proposed legislative proposals as he deemed necessary. |
| Chief Judge | adjudicated all civil and criminal cases. |
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