The Roman Senate was a pivotal institution in ancient Rome, serving as a governing body that advised the consuls and later the emperors. Composed of Rome's elite, the Senate played a crucial role in shaping laws, foreign policy, and financial matters, influencing the direction of the Roman Republic and Empire. Initially, the Senate was an advisory council, but over time it gained significant power, especially during the Republic. Senators were typically from the patrician class, and their decisions impacted the lives of millions. The Senate's authority waned with the rise of imperial rule, yet it remained a symbol of Roman governance.