Legio

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Legion VI Megiddo 070715 02

Legio (plural: Legiones) was the basic ancient Roman army unit. The term "legion" is derived from the Latin word "legio," which means "military levy" or "conscription." The Roman legion was a highly disciplined and effective military force that played a crucial role in the expansion and maintenance of the Roman Empire.

Structure

A Roman legion typically consisted of around 4,000 to 6,000 soldiers, although the number could vary. The legion was divided into smaller units called cohorts, each consisting of about 480 soldiers. Each cohort was further divided into centuries, which were commanded by a centurion. A century usually comprised 80 men.

Command

The overall commander of a legion was known as the legatus, who was appointed by the Roman Senate or the Roman Emperor. The legatus was assisted by several senior officers, including the tribunus laticlavius, the tribunus angusticlavius, and the praefectus castrorum.

Equipment

Legionaries were equipped with a variety of weapons and armor. The primary weapon was the gladius, a short sword used for close combat. They also carried a pilum, a type of javelin, and a large rectangular shield called a scutum. For protection, legionaries wore a helmet, body armor (usually a lorica segmentata), and greaves.

Training and Discipline

Roman legionaries underwent rigorous training to ensure they were physically fit and capable of executing complex battlefield maneuvers. Discipline was strictly enforced, and punishments for disobedience or cowardice were severe. This high level of discipline and training made the Roman legion one of the most formidable military units in history.

Campaigns and Battles

Legions were involved in numerous campaigns and battles throughout the history of the Roman Empire. Some of the most famous legions include Legio X Equestris, which was commanded by Julius Caesar, and Legio IX Hispana, which mysteriously disappeared in the early 2nd century AD.

Legacy

The Roman legion has left a lasting legacy on military organization and tactics. Many modern military terms and concepts can trace their origins back to the Roman legion. The structure and discipline of the legion have influenced military forces throughout history and continue to be studied by military historians and strategists.

See Also

• Roman military
• Roman Empire
• Centurion
• Gladius
• Pilum
• Scutum
• Lorica segmentata