Tarquinius Superbus becomes the king of Rome

Lucius Tarquinius Superbus served as the seventh and final king of Rome, a position that conferred upon him extensive judicial powers. He presided over capital criminal cases, specifically through the criminal court known as the duumviri perduellionis, which was responsible for adjudicating treason cases. Unlike his predecessors, Tarquinius Superbus made decisions without consulting advisors or counsellors, a practice that instilled fear among the populace and potential dissenters. This unilateral approach to justice allowed him to maintain control and suppress opposition, as individuals were wary of the consequences of challenging his authority. His reign is characterized by a concentration of power that blurred the lines between judicial and executive functions, effectively making him the chief justice of Rome. The implications of Tarquinius Superbus' judicial authority were profound, as they set a precedent for the exercise of power in the Roman legal system. His ability to judge capital cases without counsel not only highlighted the king's imperium but also raised concerns about the potential for abuse of power. The fear generated by his judicial practices contributed to a climate of oppression, which ultimately played a role in the transition from monarchy to the establishment of the Roman Republic. The legacy of his reign is reflected in the subsequent legal reforms and the development of a more balanced system of governance that sought to prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a single ruler. This shift marked a critical evolution in Roman political structure, emphasizing the importance of checks and balances in the administration of justice.