Ambrose Bierce

Consul - in American politics, a person who having failed to secure an office from the people is given one by the Administration on condition that he leave the country.

American Journalist

A consul represents their home country in a specific foreign area.

Government Representative

Consuls focus on citizens' issues, different from ambassadors who deal with state diplomacy.

Not Ambassador

Consuls help their country's citizens abroad with legal, travel, and emergency issues.

Helps Citizens

A consul protects and promotes their nation's economic and political interests.

Government Interest

Consul is both a job role and a title used when addressing the person.

Official Title

Some consuls have a more administrative role and may not engage in high-level diplomacy.

Not Always Diplomatic

In historical contexts, consul refers to one of the highest elected officials in Roman government.

Ancient Rome

Roman consuls shared power equally, emphasizing checks and balances in governance.

Dual Leadership

Each Roman consul served for one year, preventing long-term individual power.

Limited Term

 and relinquished control of the army when he resigned his consul post. Mere optics. He used his military influence and personal wealth to stack the Senate in his favor, while retaining the powers of a tribune and the right to celebrate military triumphs.

History vs. Augustus -...

 by two annually representatives called praetors, who were later called consuls. One of them become a famous general and dictator, Julius Caesar. The imperial period followed.