one of the divisions of the Roman people, opposed to populares. It is not easy to ascertain the characteristic differences betwixt these two parties. Some say the optimates were warm supporters of the dignity of the chief magistrate, and promoters of the grandeur of the state, who cared not if the inferior members suffered, provided the commanding powers were advanced: Whereas the populares boldly flood up for the rights of the people, pleaded for larger privileges, and laboured to bring matters nearer to a level. In short, they resembled, according to this account, the court and country parties amongst the people of this island.

Tully says, that the optimates were the best citizens, who wished to deserve the approbation of the better sort; and that the populares courted the favour of the populace, not so much considering what was right, as what would please the people and gratify their own thirst of vain glory and empty applause.