Legal Definitions - missilia

Missilia

Missilia are gifts of money that were thrown to people on the street by wealthy individuals, praetors, or consuls in ancient Rome. This was a way of showing generosity and largesse.

During festivals and celebrations, wealthy Romans would throw missilia to the crowds. These gifts were often coins or small amounts of money. The recipients of the missilia were usually poor people who were grateful for the unexpected windfall.

Another example of missilia was during the triumphal procession of a victorious general. The general would throw coins and other gifts to the people as a way of celebrating his victory and showing his generosity.

These examples illustrate how missilia were used as a way of showing generosity and goodwill towards others. They were a way for the wealthy and powerful to share their wealth with those less fortunate and to gain favor with the people.