The ancient civilization that created the concept of a republic is the Roman civilization. Emerging around the 6th century BC, Rome transitioned from a monarchy to a republic, establishing a system of governance where elected representatives made decisions on behalf of the citizens. This political structure inspired later democratic systems, emphasizing ideas like civic duty and public participation. The Roman Republic's institutions, such as the Senate and assemblies, played crucial roles in balancing power among different social classes. Ultimately, the Roman model greatly influenced modern definitions of representative government.