What did the tribunes do in Rome?

In ancient Rome, tribunes were elected officials tasked with protecting the rights and interests of the plebeians, the common citizens of Rome. Tribunes were part of the Roman political system during the Roman Republic and held significant power to check the authority of the patricians, the wealthy and powerful elite of Roman society.

Here are some of the key functions and powers of the tribunes:

1. Representing the Plebeians: Tribunes were representatives of the plebeians and acted as intermediaries between them and the patrician-dominated government. They could propose legislation, veto the actions of other magistrates, and defend the rights of plebeians if they felt they were mistreated or their interests were threatened.

2. Veto Power: One of the most important powers of the tribunes was their ability to veto, or block, any laws or decisions made by other magistrates, including consuls and senators. This power allowed tribunes to protect the interests of the plebeians and prevent measures that they believed were unjust or detrimental to their welfare.

3. Convening Assemblies: Tribunes could call and preside over assemblies of the plebeians, known as the Concilium Plebis. In these assemblies, tribunes could propose laws and measures that were then voted upon by the plebeian citizens.

4. Intercession (Droit De Veto): Tribunes had the right to intervene and nullify the actions of other magistrates if they believed such actions were unfair or discriminatory towards plebeians. They could also protect individual citizens from arbitrary arrests or punishments by magistrates.

5. Sacrosanctity: Tribunes were considered sacrosanct, which meant they were entitled to special protection under religious law. Anyone who harmed a tribune or interfered with their duties could face severe religious sanctions or even death. This sacrosanct status enhanced the tribunes' ability to exercise their powers without fear of retaliation.

6. Political Influence: As representatives of the plebeians, tribunes played an influential role in Roman politics. They could form political alliances, influence electoral outcomes, and mobilize the plebeian masses to support their causes or oppose patrician policies.

Overall, the tribunes were important figures in the Roman Republic, serving as protectors of the plebeians' rights, ensuring their fair treatment within the legal and political system, and acting as a check on the power of the patrician ruling class.