The plebeians were the lower class in Roman society. They were free citizens, but they did not have the same rights and privileges as the patricians, who were the upper class. The plebeians were often farmers, artisans, or merchants. They were not allowed to hold public office or serve in the army. They also had to pay taxes to the patricians.
The plebeians were not always happy with their status. They often protested and demanded more rights. In 494 BC, the plebeians seceded from Rome and refused to return until they were granted more rights. The patricians eventually agreed to give the plebeians more rights, and the plebeians returned to Rome.
The plebeians continued to gain more rights over time. In 287 BC, they were allowed to hold public office. In 133 BC, they were allowed to serve in the army. And in 287 AD, they were allowed to marry patricians.
The plebeians eventually became the majority of the population of Rome. They played a major role in the development of Roman society and culture.