The
optimates ("Aristocrats", singular
optimas; also known as
boni, "Good Men") were the traditionalist Senatorial majority of the late
Roman Republic. They wished to limit the power of the
popular assemblies and the
Tribunes of the Plebs, and to extend the power of the
Senate, which was viewed as more dedicated to the interests of the
aristocrats who held the reins of power. In particular, they were concerned with the rise of individual generals who, backed by the tribunate, the assemblies and their own soldiers, could shift power from the Senate and aristocracy. They were opposed by the
populares.
