proscire

Proscire is a term primarily used in ancient Roman law. It refers to the legal condemnation of a person to exile, confiscation of property, or even death. A proscribed individual was declared an enemy of the state, and their name was publicly posted. This had severe consequences, as it meant that anyone could legally harm or kill them without reprisal, and their property was forfeited to the state or to those who carried out the execution.

The most infamous use of proscription occurred during the Roman Republic, particularly during the periods of civil war. Dictators like Sulla and later the Second Triumvirate (Octavian, Antony, and Lepidus) employed proscription lists to eliminate political opponents, seize wealth, and consolidate power. These lists were often extensive and indiscriminately targeted not only political enemies but also wealthy individuals whose assets were desirable. The proscribed were stripped of their legal rights, and their families often suffered long-lasting social stigma and economic hardship. The practice was a brutal tool of political repression and demonstrated the extreme measures taken to achieve political dominance in ancient Rome.