The Political Importance of Gladiators in Ancient Rome

Before beginning, it is worth noting that this is a brief writing of ancient Rome, generalizing the history which spans from ~750 BC to ~500 AD. It is also worth noting that Rome was heavily divided between the: A) lower class (Plebians), and: B) upper class (Patricians).

Additionally, it should be noted that gladiators weren't only slaves. Gladiators were often free men, choosing to fight for fortune and fame. Likewise, killing the opponent was not the main priority but rather, pleasing the crowd as entertainment, to both exit the arena together.

In terms of political importance, gladiator games were often funded by Patricians to please the Plebians, while also demonstrating their wealth to other Patricians. Plebians were not wealthy or powerful, but held numbers. Public spectacles could settle them in times of unrest.

Lastly, an emphasis should be made on funeral games. As the name suggests, these were games held at the during a funeral (often they consisted of slaves and were to the death). Funeral games demonstrated a Patrician families power, even after important lost of a notable member.