OCR GCSE Ancient History key terms

Mercy shown by someone in power towards a defeated opponent or a person they could punish.

A person linked to a powerful patron by a relationship of protection and support, which could include supporting the patron’s preferred candidates in elections.

A ruler who retained a kingdom while depending on Roman support and serving Roman interests.

A kingdom whose ruler retained local authority but was allied to, and dependent on, Rome.

A monarch whose alliance with Rome offered some protection, but who was expected to support Roman interests, including supplying military assistance.

A ruler allied to Rome who retained a throne but was expected to support Roman interests, particularly by supplying military resources.

A local ruler who retained power through a relationship with Rome and supported Roman interests, usually in return for protection.

Rome’s great sewer, developed from earlier drainage works; Livy describes its construction as an underground tunnel under Tarquinius Superbus.

An alliance of separate groups formed to act together, for example against a shared military threat.

A community’s understanding of who its members are and which qualities, values and achievements distinguish them from others.

A Roman settlement established for citizens, often including retired soldiers.

The establishment and extension of control over another territory. Carthaginian expansion in Iberia involved conquest, alliances and the creation of a centre of government.

A covered walkway supported by a row of columns.

The coordinated use of different troop types, such as cavalry, infantry and missile troops, so that their roles support one another.

The Roman assembly organised into centuries, in which wealthier groups had greater voting influence.

The curiate assembly, from which Volero Publilius proposed transferring the election of plebeian tribunes.

The tribal assembly, to which the election of plebeian tribunes was transferred in 471 BC.

Elite Macedonian mounted troops used as a major attacking force, often led into battle by Alexander.

Alexander’s close associates and leading officers, who formed an important part of the Macedonian ruling elite.

A policy of reducing hostility through moderation and a willingness to accept submission.

The struggles over legal protection, economic grievances and political power between Rome’s patricians and plebeians.

Strengthening control over territory already taken, through measures such as forts, garrisons, reliable supplies and administrative reforms.

An agreement between people to carry out a secret plan, especially against a ruler.

The institutions and rules through which a state is governed.

One of Rome's two annually elected senior magistrates, with major political and military responsibilities.

A military tribune exercising consular authority, an office created as a compromise that allowed either patricians or plebeians to be elected without opening the consulship itself to plebeians.

A horn of plenty: a symbol associated with abundance and prosperity.

Checking a claim against other evidence to see whether it receives support.