Roman consuls unite political authority and battlefield command

Roman consuls combined civil authority with military command, and their careers included military service before they reached the highest office. Agreement between both consuls could also unite their political supporters behind wartime supply and expenditure. Carthaginian generals might hold command longer, but major resource requests still went back to a separate political authority. Rome concentrated substantial power in its commanders and balanced that power by appointing two consuls. Officers from the equestrian class could bring further military experience, with successful service offering a possible route toward senatorial rank.