AP World History Practice Test Chapter 5

Questions refer to the following passage. “The three kinds of government, monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy, were all found united in the commonwealth of Rome. For if they turned their view upon the power of the consuls, the government appeared to be purely monarchial and regal. If, again, the authority of the senate was considered, it then seemed to wear the form of aristocracy. And if regard was to be had to the share which the people possessed in the administration of affairs, it could then scarcely fail to be denominated a popular state. The consuls, when they remain in Rome, before they lead out the armies into the field, are the masters of all public affairs. For all other magistrates, the tribunes alone excepted, are subject to them, and bound to obey their commands. They introduce ambassadors into the senate. They propose also to the senate the subjects of debates; and direct all forms that are observed in making the decrees. Nor is it less a part of their office likewise, to attend to those affairs that are transacted by the people; to call together general assemblies; to report to them the resolutions of the senate; and to ratify whatever is determined by the greater number. In all the preparations that are made for war, as well as in the whole administration in the field, they possess an almost absolute authority.” Polybius, Greek historian of the Hellenistic period, “An Analysis of Roman Government,” circa 150 B.C.E The role of Roman consuls described in the passage most strongly supports which of the following statements about the Roman Empire?