Interrex

An Interrex (Latin for "between king") was an official in ancient Rome appointed during an interregnum, the period between the death or abdication of one king or consul and the election of his successor. The Interrex's primary function was to convene the comitia centuriata (the Roman assembly) to elect new magistrates.

History and Role:

In the Roman Kingdom, the Interrex was appointed by the Senate. Upon the death of a king, the Senate would assume power and select one of its members to act as Interrex. This officeholder would then nominate a candidate for king, and if the Senate approved, the Interrex would hold an election in the comitia curiata (the assembly of the curiae). If the candidate was elected, the Interrex would confirm the election and the new king would assume office. The Interrex held office for a maximum of five days, after which, if no king had been elected, another senator would be appointed as Interrex. This process continued until a new king was chosen.

During the Roman Republic, the office of Interrex was revived, although less frequently used. It was appointed by the Senate after the death or abdication of consuls when no other magistrates were available to hold elections. The Interrex, chosen from among the patrician senators, held office for five days, and could convene the comitia centuriata to elect consuls. If no election occurred within that time, another Interrex would be appointed. This process continued until consuls were elected.

The existence of the Interrex underscores the Roman commitment to legal continuity and the orderly transfer of power, even in times of crisis or the absence of chief magistrates. The office emphasized the role of the Senate in maintaining political stability and ensuring the election of new leaders. The practice largely disappeared after the late Republic, becoming obsolete under the Empire.