L. Tarquinius Priscus

(reigning 616-579) Lucius (originally Lucumo) Tarquinius Priscus (meaning Tarquin the Elder), unlike the kings before him, didn't start out as a Roman nobleman. In fact, it is believed that he is descended from Demaratus, a Corinthian who migrated to Tarquinii, Etruria. When his father died, Lucumo inherited all his property and became a very wealthy man. [2] He then married an Etruscan noblewoman who, embarrassed by his low status, persuaded him to move to Rome and achieve a higher status. [2]
According to legend, when they had got only as far as Janiculum, an eagle swooped down and took his cap, only to return it safely to his head, an omen that he was destined for great things.[2]
The fact that he was a foreigner and wealthy drew attention to him, and as a result he gradually became part of the upper social circles of Rome. Soon, the King, Ancus Marcius, began relying on him as a consultant, both in matters of state and more domestic issues. [1][2] Finally, after passing every test of character and ability, he was appointed by the King's will, guardian to his children. [2]
This quick ascension in social status clearly demonstrates his charismatic and ambitious attributes, but more importantly signifies the multicultural nature of Rome at the time.
When Ancus Marcius was dead, Tarquinius sent away the two sons as they were the most logical successors and were now of a suitable age to reign. And, his persuasive power was so strong that during his speech about previous kings being foreigners and how much he had learnt under Ancus Marcius's direction, the people of Rome elected him king. [2]
Within days of the ceremony, Tarquinius was already adding 100 men to the Senate (all up 300 now), who were later to be called the 'Lesser Houses', most of which were unfathomably loyal supporters of the king.[2]
This, despite his obvious choice in people who would always support him and give him the extra support he needed to pass anything through the Senate, was clearly a way of giving more power to the people.



Cloaca Maxima

 Tarquinius is attributed with the building of the Cloaca Maxima, literally meaning Greatest Sewer, which is one of the earliest drainage systems ever, built specifically to drain the Forum into the Tiber. [1] A revolutionary system that set a higher standard of living for all people.

Tarquinius also allocated space for what is now the Circus Maximus, in which, spots were allocated to patricians to build stands from which to watch the 'Roman' or 'Great Games'. [1][2] At first they were celebrated on occasions of especial solemnity, but as they became more popular they became an annual affair.
These games divided the people into clearer classes, as the higher classes all had seats allocated to them which they themselves had had built.