In ancient Rome, there was a “Path of Honor”: Those who would serve the state would begin with low level administrative position, then run for higher and higher positions as they gained experience. The positions were for a year, so after a year taking care of the State, they could take a year off and tend to their network of clients and friends. Their position in the Senate was gained for the rest of their life by their first election. More popular leaders could be elected over and over. Gaius Marius was elected Consul 7 times, finally dying in office.
The problem: Augustus and the early rulers of the Principate held over 40 positions, with the work actually being done by his network of unelected slaves. Of course the slaves tended to be corrupt, much like our congressional staffers and lobbyists.
