Social structures in the Roman Empire were highly hierarchal, traditional, and class-conscious. The Romans placed huge importance in what roles they play, and what parts of the social ladder they belong in. The borders were stark, and well-defined, unlike the borders of the class system of the United States. Different classes even wore different articles of clothing. Social positions were based on economic and political factors, such as how affluent a certain citizen was, or what kind of experience that citizen had in the military. Although it was very demanding, it was still possible for a lowly peasant to move up through the stark lines of the social ladder. The Roman Empire was divided up into six groups of people or classes. At the very top of the food chain were the patricians, who were the wealthy land owners of society. They were often in close relations with the emperor. Next were the senators, who ruled the Roman Empire. Right below them were the equestrians, who made up the merchants, and businessmen of the empire. The last three were the plebeians, the freedmen, and the slaves. In addition to these classes, the Roman empire was run through a system of patronage, which was important to the growth of the empire.