a class of persons holding exceptional rank and privileges, especially the hereditary nobility. a government or state ruled by an aristocracy, elite, or privileged upper class. government by those considered to be the best or most able people in the state.
To increase the power of the southern states in congress.
They served as examples of the empire's wealth, inspiring awe in newly conquered people
The system of government being referred to here would be a "bicameral" system of government, since there are two main legislative bodies--each intended to deal with a different aspect of each smaller territory (states, in the US).
