Checks And Balances: The Roman Republic

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The Roman Republic was governed by a complex constitution, in which the principles of a separation of powers and checks and balances were the most significant. It began after the overthrow of the Roman monarchy in 510 BC and ended in 27 BC with the establishment of the Roman Empire.
Consuls were the head of the government who were elected annually by the citizens. Consuls oversaw the workings of the government and its officials, as well as being the commander of the army. The Senate was the most permanent governing and advisory council and were essentially, the law makers of Rome. They decided on the spending, controlled taxation and relations with foreign powers and also advised the consuls. The last governing body of the Republic was the