Military of ancient Rome

Cornicen on Trajan's column

Column of Marcus Aurelius - detail3

7antoninianii

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Roman Legions camps - AD 80

Vista general de Masada

== Military of Ancient Rome ==

The Military of Ancient Rome was a formidable force that played a crucial role in the expansion and maintenance of the Roman Empire. The Roman military evolved over time, adapting to new challenges and incorporating new tactics and technologies.

Early Roman Army

The early Roman army was primarily composed of citizen-soldiers who were required to serve in the military as part of their civic duty. This early force was organized into legions, which were the primary military units of the Roman army. Each legion was divided into smaller units called centuries, commanded by a centurion.

Republican Army

During the Roman Republic, the military underwent significant reforms. The most notable of these were the Marian reforms initiated by Gaius Marius in 107 BCE. These reforms professionalized the army, allowing for the recruitment of landless citizens and creating a standing army. Soldiers were now paid and served for longer periods, which increased the effectiveness and loyalty of the troops.

Imperial Army

Under the Roman Empire, the military structure became more complex and sophisticated. The army was divided into two main types: the legionaries, who were Roman citizens, and the auxiliaries, who were non-citizens. The legions were the elite heavy infantry, while the auxiliaries provided additional support, including cavalry and specialized troops.

Military Tactics and Equipment

The Roman military was known for its discipline, organization, and innovative tactics. The use of the testudo formation, a defensive formation resembling a tortoise shell, was one of the many tactics that made the Roman army formidable in battle. Roman soldiers were equipped with a variety of weapons, including the gladius, a short sword, and the pilum, a type of javelin.

Fortifications and Engineering

Roman military engineering was highly advanced. The construction of forts, roads, and aqueducts facilitated the movement and supply of troops. The siege engines such as the ballista and onager were used to breach enemy fortifications.

Decline and Legacy

The decline of the Roman military began in the late Empire period, due to a combination of internal strife, economic troubles, and external pressures from barbarian invasions. Despite its decline, the Roman military left a lasting legacy on military organization, tactics, and engineering.

Related Pages

• Roman Empire
• Roman Republic
• Legion
• Centurion
• Marian reforms
• Testudo formation
• Gladius
• Pilum
• Roman fortifications
• Roman roads
• Roman aqueducts
• Ballista
• Onager

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