military tribune

In ancient Rome, a tribune was an official with various military and civil roles. Military tribunes (tribuni militum) initially served as infantry commanders, with six per legion under the early republic. Their numbers and appointment methods varied over time, eventually becoming a stepping stone in senatorial or equestrian careers under the empire.1

Another significant type was the tribune of the plebs (tribuni plebis), who emerged by the 5th century BC. This office became very powerful, with 10 tribunes elected by the plebeian assembly. They could veto the actions of magistrates and had inviolable persons, acting as protectors of the common people. Their role evolved to include introducing legislation, and the emperor later assumed their "tribunician power" as a key element of his authority. Treasury tribunes (tribuni aerarii) were likely officials responsible for collecting tribute and distributing pay.1