What governed the roman republic and led the army into battle?

The Roman Republic was governed by a complex system of checks and balances that included elected officials, notably the consuls, who served as the highest magistrates and led the army into battle. The Senate, composed of patricians and later plebeians, played a crucial advisory role and influenced military decisions. Additionally, popular assemblies allowed citizens to vote on key issues, including military command and declarations of war. This structure aimed to balance power between different social classes and prevent any single individual from gaining too much authority.