The Conflict of the Orders was a power struggle in ancient Rome between the patricians, the aristocratic class, and the plebeians, the common citizens. This conflict lasted from 494 BC to 287 BC and aimed to address the social and political inequalities faced by the plebeians, who sought greater rights and representation in the Roman government. During this period, the plebeians organized themselves and created their own assembly, the Council of the Plebs, which allowed them to pass laws and elect officials called tribunes. Over time, the plebeians gained significant concessions, including the Lex Hortensia in 287 BC, which made decisions of the Council binding on all citizens, thus marking a significant step toward political equality in Rome.