Differences between the Optimates and the Populares
While the optimates represented the patricians and senators, the popular ones relied on the lower classes.
The optimates sought to maintain the power of the Senate and preserve Roman traditions. But the popular ones promoted laws that benefited the commoners, such as the distribution of land.
The optimates believed in political unity.
Furthermore, they had greater class homogeneity and unity in their interests.
On the other hand, the popular ones opposed the optimates, because they sought to increase their influence in the senate.
