1. Political System:
- Roman Republic: The Roman Republic was a Republican system of government. The power was vested in the Senate, which consisted of elected representatives from wealthy families. The Roman Senate and popular assemblies had significant roles in decision-making.
- Roman Civilization: During the Roman Civilization (Empire), the political system changed from a republic to an empire ruled by emperors. The emperor held absolute power and was considered the divine leader.
2. Social Structure:
- Roman Republic: The Roman Republic had a hierarchical social structure. The upper class consisted of wealthy landowners and patrician families, while the lower classes included plebeians, slaves, and freedmen.
- Roman Civilization: The social structure of the Roman Civilization became more egalitarian compared to the republic. The status of individuals was based on their wealth and achievements rather than solely on birth.
3. Military and Expansion:
- Roman Republic: The Roman Republic had a formidable military and engaged in numerous wars of expansion. It conquered vast territories in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
- Roman Civilization: During the Roman Empire, the military continued to be strong and played a crucial role in maintaining control over the vast territories conquered by the Republic. However, the focus shifted more toward maintaining the existing territories rather than further expansion.
4. Art and Culture:
- Roman Republic: Roman art and culture during the Republic were influenced by Greek and Hellenistic styles. There was an emphasis on realism and civic virtue in artistic expression.
- Roman Civilization: The Roman Civilization saw further development in art and culture, and Roman art and architecture flourished. Iconic structures such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon were constructed during this period.
5. Economic System:
- Roman Republic: The Roman Republic had a primarily agricultural economy, supplemented by trade and commerce. Landownership played a significant role in the economy and wealth distribution.
- Roman Civilization: During the Roman Empire, the economy became more complex and diverse, with increased urbanization, trade, and commercial activity. The empire also relied on a system of taxation and infrastructure development.
6. Religion:
- Roman Republic: The Roman Republic adhered to a polytheistic religion, worshipping various gods and goddesses. The cult of the emperors developed during the late Republic, with emperors being deified after their deaths.
- Roman Civilization: The Roman Empire saw the rise of Christianity and the gradual decline of traditional Roman religion. Christianity eventually became the dominant religion in the empire.
7. Duration:
- Roman Republic: The Roman Republic lasted from the overthrow of the Roman monarchy in 509 BC until the establishment of the Roman Empire in 27 BC. It spanned approximately 482 years.
- Roman Civilization (Empire): The Roman Civilization, or the Roman Empire, lasted from 27 BC until the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD. It spanned approximately 503 years.
These differences highlight the transformation and evolution of ancient Roman society, culture, and governance from the Republican era to the Imperial period.