In modern politics, a consul is an official who is a representative of his state in another region. This diplomat performs a number of functions to protect the political, economic and legal interests of his country. In this publication we will talk in detail about what a consul is based on the example of Ancient Rome.
Power in Ancient Rome
In order to understand what a consul is in ancient Rome, it is necessary to consider the system of government. The republican period was characterized by a combination of aristocratic and democratic features.
The main bodies of power at that time were popular assemblies (which were convened only by order of senior officials), the Senate and the magistracy. The senate played a significant role in the life of the state. This body was advisory in nature. In addition, he had foreign political powers and performed a controlling function. Also at his disposal was the treasury of Rome.
Roman Masters are government posts. They were elected by the popular assembly (dictators were the exception). The consul post was one such magistracy. This person, along with the dictator and praetors, had the so-called supreme power. The consul had a "great imperative." This official had the right to impose death sentences. There were 2 consuls in republican Rome. Each of them performed the same functions.
So, let's consider what is a consul in more detail.
The power of the consul in ancient Rome
In ancient Rome, the period of the republic, the consul performed the following functions:
- The imposition of the death penalty. This decision of the consul could be appealed by the National Assembly in only one case. The death sentence could be reversed if it was imposed outside of Rome.
- Consuls led the entire Roman magistracy system.
- They had military powers. The consuls led the army, elected military leaders and distributed the loot.
- Possessed the highest civil authority.
- During the hostilities, the Senate could grant them unlimited powers.
In ancient Rome, consuls were elected for one year, i.e., their position was ordinary. Special assistants, questors, were attached to these persons.
Consuls in modern politics
In modern politics, the consul is a person standing in the diplomatic service. He represents the interests of his state in another country or city. For example, the US consul in Russia defends the political and economic interests of America. Its functions include facilitating the establishment of relations between states, issuing visas and passports to the citizens of the country whose interests it represents.
A consulate is a special institution located in the territory of another state (with its consent) to perform certain functions.