Ancient history

What kind of jobs did equestrians have in Roman times?

Equestrian was a social class in ancient Rome, and its members had various occupations. Here are some jobs that equestrians held:

1. Military Officers: Equestrians were often commissioned as military officers, especially in the cavalry units. They could rise through the ranks and command large cavalry detachments or serve as military tribunes.

2. Government Officials: Equestrians could hold various government positions at the provincial level. They often served as financial administrators or magistrates in the Roman Empire's provinces.

3. Tax Collectors: Equestrians frequently held positions as tax collectors in the Roman provinces. Tax collection was an important source of revenue for the Roman government, and equestrians were entrusted with this responsibility.

4. Business and Trade: Equestrians were also involved in business, trade, and commerce. They could engage in banking, moneylending, manufacturing, and overseas trading ventures.

5. Imperial Administration: Equestrians served as imperial administrators and played a crucial role in the Roman imperial bureaucracy. They could hold positions in the emperor's household, such as procurators or prefects, and manage large administrative districts on the emperor's behalf.

6. Politics: Equestrians could participate in politics at the local level, serving as municipal magistrates or town councilors. However, they generally lacked the political influence and social status of the senatorial class to hold the highest political offices in Rome.

It's important to note that not all equestrians held these specific jobs. The equestrian order encompassed a diverse group of wealthy individuals with various economic interests and backgrounds, so their occupations could vary widely.