What type of government did the Romans have during the republic?

The ancient Romans had three major forms of government during the almost 900 years of their existence including when the empire was divided into an eastern and western half.

1. Monarchy (king )

2. Republic ( balance of powers )

3. Constitutional Monarchy ( Imperator driven )

The last system always tried to give the semblance of the old republic, however for all practical purposes the emperor had supreme control of the empire's affairs. As example, control of the military and the power to appoint or remove members of the Senate. The Assembly also remained, and emperors would "propose" laws and policies to both organizations. The term of "king" was always avoided.

4. The term of "dictator" was used in times of extreme crisis. Julius Caesar as example was bestowed by the Senate to be dictator for life.