why do you suppose some of Rome's citizens wanted absolute rulers instead of elected senators ?
There could be several reasons why some of Rome's citizens may have preferred absolute rulers instead of elected senators:
1. Stability and security: Absolute rulers provide a sense of stability and security as they give a single person complete authority to make decisions and enforce laws. In times of political or social uncertainty, citizens may feel that an absolute ruler would be better equipped to handle such crises.
2. Efficiency and effectiveness: Elected senators often have to go through lengthy deliberations and debates before making decisions, which can slow down the decision-making process. Absolute rulers, on the other hand, can make immediate decisions and implement them quickly, which some citizens may view as more efficient and effective.
3. Dissatisfaction with the Senate: The Senate in ancient Rome could be corrupt, inefficient, or influenced by personal interests. Some citizens may have lost faith in the ability of elected senators to govern effectively and preferred a centralized power that could potentially overcome such issues.
4. Desire for strong leadership: Some citizens may have believed that a strong and charismatic leader could unite the Roman Empire, expand its territories, and maintain its dominance. They may have been more attracted to the idea of a powerful ruler who could establish strong leadership and project a positive image of Rome.
5. Lack of political engagement: Not all citizens took an active interest in politics or had the time and means to participate in the political process. They may have felt indifferent towards the idea of elected senators and preferred a ruler who could make decisions on their behalf without requiring their involvement.
It is important to note that these reasons may vary from one individual to another, and the preferences for absolute rulers over elected senators likely resulted from a combination of factors. Additionally, this answer is based on general assumptions and does not account for the complexity and diversity of opinions within ancient Rome.
There are several reasons why some citizens of Rome preferred absolute rulers over elected senators. Here are a few possible reasons:
1. Stability and Security: Rome had experienced political, economic, and social turmoil during the decline of the Roman Republic. Some citizens believed that a strong, central leader would bring stability and security to the empire.
2. Factionalism and Corruption: During the late Roman Republic, political factions and corruption within the Senate were prevalent. Some citizens may have felt that elected senators were ineffective in addressing the empire's problems and saw absolute rulers as a potential solution.
3. Effective Governance: Absolute rulers could make swift decisions and implement policies without the need for time-consuming debates and consultations. This streamlined decision-making process appealed to those who believed that quick and decisive actions were necessary for effective governance.
4. Imperial Cult of the Emperor: The concept of the divine right of kings and the worship of the emperor were deeply ingrained in Roman society. Citizens who adhered to this belief might have viewed absolute rulers as necessary figures who carried divine authority, enabling them to better lead the empire.
5. Military Success: The Roman Empire's expansion and military conquests were highly valued by many citizens. Absolute rulers were often seen as successful military leaders who could protect and expand the empire, which appealed to those who prioritized the empire's military might.
It is important to note that these reasons varied among different groups and individuals in Rome, and not all citizens wanted absolute rulers.