Question

Who was the paterfamilias in early rome.?

Answer 1

Paterfamilias is how power was ruled in a family. It was the oldest MALE in the family. In my class we call each family a family - state, why? Because the oldest had EVERYTHING. He was the person responsible for everything. If his son got some land he would be in controle of it, and the next oldest male would get it after the first died. So in conclusion, Paterfamilias is the mini king!

Answer 2

Paterfamilias is the Latin term for 'the father of the family' or 'the owner of the family estate'.

It was the oldest living male in the household who held the authority over the whole family. This included also his extended relatives, slaves and freedmen. He also held legal privilege over the property of the family.

He had a duty to father and raise healthy children as future citizens. He was held responsible for maintaining the well-being of his family and his property and to serve in Rom's political, religious and social life.