Government!

Carthage was run by an aristocratic elite that held positions in society from politics to the military. As expected from an ancient civilization, participation in government was limited to indigenous and free Carthigians males (big surprise!). The basic idea for their representative structure was a system of two elected officials (the suffetes) who were checked by a popular assembly (the Senate).

The suffetes, which can be translated as "judges," were elected annually and held the most powerful position in the Carthaginian government. Based on historical records, it can be concluded that wealth and family background were crucial factors in choosing who were eligible for this prestigious office.

The Senate, on the other hand, consisted of numerous influential Carthigians who held their position for life. These members were collectively known as drm or "great ones," hence how they came to received the name "Council of Elders." The Senate was responsible for declaring war and advising the suffetes on government policy.

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