Final answer:
The difference between patricians and plebeians in Roman society was originally a distinction of aristocratic elite versus common people. Over time, legal reforms, such as the ability of the Plebeian Assembly to pass laws and plebeians holding public office, reduced these divisions. However, class struggles continued with wealthy plebeians joining patricians to form a dominant Roman aristocracy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Difference Between Patricians and Plebeians in Roman Society
The Roman Republic was characterized by a significant social and political divide between two distinct classes: the patricians and the plebeians. The patricians were the aristocratic elite, enjoying exclusive privileges such as holding public office and sitting in the Senate. In contrast, the plebeians represented the common people, initially excluded from political power. Over time, a series of reforms, particularly after 367 BCE when a law required that one of the two consuls must be a plebeian, began to level the societal playing field.
Political Reforms and Legal Rights
Gradually, the Plebeian Assembly became empowered to pass laws that applied to all Roman citizens, and after 287 BCE, the plebeians could influence legislation proposed by their tribunes. Initially, only the Plebeian Assembly elected tribunes, who wielded veto power to protect plebeian interests. However, as plebeians gained more legal rights, including the ability to serve as elected officials and sit in the Senate, the divisions between patricians and plebeians lessened.
The Reality of Class Struggle
Despite these legal victories, class struggle persisted, and wealth remained a determinant of power. Wealthy plebeians often aligned with patricians, marginalizing poorer plebeians. The political system was skewed as most state offices did not pay salaries, favoring those with substantial incomes who could serve in unpaid public roles. Effectively, a new Roman aristocracy of wealthy plebeians and patricians emerged, dominating politics and maintaining control over common citizens.