What was the role of a praetor?

The praetor's primary function was to conduct judicial proceedings, both civil and provincial, but he had executive or imperium power, similar to that of the consul, and he could perform most consular duties when required. He could govern provinces, preside in the Senate or act as an army commander.

What does praetor mean?

The term praetor (it means "to go before" – from prae ire) was used to designate annually elected senior magistrates who initially acted as the heads of state when the Roman Republic was founded. Their duties changed and evolved during the history of Rome.

Is praetor the highest rank?

At the founding of the Roman Republic, praetor was the highest rank. However, from the 4th century BCE, consuls outranked praetors.

Praetor Timeline

Definition

A praetor was a senior magistrate in ancient Roman government, who was granted executive or imperium powers similar to that of the consuls. Although originally assigned legal authority over the courts, his executive powers allowed him to command the army and, if needed, even preside over the Roman Senate. Candidates usually had to serve as a praetor before they could stand election to the consulship.

More about: Praetor

Timeline

367 BCE
The Licino-Sextian rogations establish the office a third praetor; the original two are renamed consuls.
337 BCE
The first plebeian praetor is elected.
228 BCE
The number of praetors is increased to four.
c. 226 BCE
Marcus Claudius Marcellus is made a praetor.
180 BCE
The Lex Villia Annalis sets the minimum age of each magistracy in the Roman government.
73 BCE
Marcus Licinius Crassus is made praetor.

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