Legio IX Hispana

Roman Empire 125

Legio IX Hispana (Ninth Spanish Legion), also written as Legio VIIII Hispana, was a Roman legion that was active from the 1st century BC until at least the mid-2nd century AD. The legion is best known for its mysterious disappearance from the historical record, which has led to much speculation and debate among historians.

History

Formation and Early Campaigns

Legio IX Hispana was originally raised by Julius Caesar around 58 BC to fight in the Gallic Wars. The legion played a crucial role in Caesar's campaigns, including the Battle of Alesia in 52 BC. After Caesar's assassination, the legion supported Octavian, the future Emperor Augustus, in the Final War of the Roman Republic.

Service in Hispania

The legion earned its cognomen "Hispana" after being stationed in Hispania (modern-day Spain) to quell local uprisings and maintain Roman control. It was during this period that the legion solidified its reputation for effectiveness and loyalty.

Campaigns in Britain

Legio IX Hispana was later transferred to Britannia (modern-day Britain) as part of the Roman invasion in AD 43 under Emperor Claudius. The legion participated in several key battles, including the suppression of the Boudican Revolt in AD 60-61.

Disappearance

The fate of Legio IX Hispana remains one of the great mysteries of Roman history. The last known record of the legion is from around AD 120, after which it disappears from Roman military records. Various theories have been proposed, including destruction in battle, reassignment to another part of the empire, or disbandment.

Theories on Disappearance

Several theories have been proposed to explain the disappearance of Legio IX Hispana:

• **Battle in Northern Britain**: Some historians suggest that the legion was destroyed in a battle against the Caledonians in northern Britain.
• **Reassignment to the East**: Another theory posits that the legion was transferred to the eastern provinces and lost in conflicts there.
• **Disbandment**: It is also possible that the legion was disbanded due to political or administrative reasons.

Legacy

The mystery of Legio IX Hispana has captured the imagination of historians, writers, and the general public. The legion has been the subject of numerous books, films, and documentaries, contributing to its enduring legacy in popular culture.

See Also

• Roman legion
• Julius Caesar
• Gallic Wars
• Emperor Augustus
• Boudican Revolt
• Caledonians