"Remember, Roman, to guide the nations with authority. Let these be your arts:
impose the laws of peace, And spare the humbled and lay low the proud." -Vergil
Citizenship was extremely important in Rome's attempt to preserve her unity. When Rome
conquered a city they would offer it alliance and would write up various terms of
the treaty.
4 Classes of Citizenship
When Rome conquered a city the defeated people would fall into one of four
classes.
Citizens,
Municipia,
Latin Allies, and
Italian Allies. Other areas maintained their domestic independence but Rome dictated their
foreign policies.
Citizens had full rights and full privileges.
Municipia received Roman citizenship without the right to vote. They were allowed a
local self-government and the rights of trade. They also served in the army and
paid taxes.
Latin Allies had no citizenship but were allowed the rights of trade, they also equipped
Rome with foreign legions and were self-governed.
Italian Allies were Roman protectorates. They sent troop levies to Rome, and they shared in
the spoils of war.
Advantages and Disadvantages For the Italian Tribes
There were many
advantages for the Italians being under the protection of Rome even though they had lost
their independence:
a) The Pax Romana (Roman peace),
b) Protection from many foreigners and multiple tribal wars ceasing,
c) Partial freedom and the possibility of full citizenship,
d) A better economy
e) The use of Rome's architecture: (bridges, aqueducts, roads, etc.)
f) Sharing in the glory of Rome
The
disadvantages were:
a) Roman taxes
b) Required military service
c) Only partial freedom
d) The eventual loss of any former identity, culture or language
Gradually the Latin language and the Roman way of life permeated the entire
Italian Peninsula and Rome was becoming quickly unified as they had hoped. (see
Rome's Methods of Domination)