Military of ancient Rome

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A cornicen, a type of military musician, depicted on Trajan's Column

Active
Disbanded
Country	Roman Empire
Allegiance	Roman Senate, Roman Emperor
Branch
Type	Military
Role	Defense, expansion, and maintenance of the Roman Empire
Size	Varied over time, peaking at over 400,000 soldiers
Part of
Garrison/HQ

Military unit

The Military of Ancient Rome was a formidable force that played a crucial role in the expansion and maintenance of the Roman Empire. It evolved over centuries, adapting to new challenges and incorporating diverse tactics and technologies. The Roman military was not only a tool of conquest but also a key institution in Roman society, influencing politics, economy, and culture.

Organization

The Roman military was organized into several key units, each with specific roles and responsibilities. The primary unit was the legion, a large formation of heavy infantry that was the backbone of the Roman army. Each legion was composed of approximately 4,800 soldiers, divided into ten cohorts.

Legion

The legion was the most significant unit in the Roman army, consisting of heavily armed infantry soldiers known as legionaries. These soldiers were Roman citizens who underwent rigorous training and discipline. The legion was supported by auxiliary troops, who were non-citizens recruited from the provinces.

Auxiliary Forces

The auxilia were non-citizen troops who provided additional manpower and specialized skills, such as cavalry, archers, and slingers. They were crucial for the flexibility and adaptability of the Roman military.

Command Structure

The Roman military was led by a series of officers, with the legatus commanding a legion. Below him were the tribuni militum, who were senior officers, and the centurions, who were responsible for the training and discipline of the soldiers.

Tactics and Strategy

Roman military tactics were based on discipline, organization, and the effective use of formations. The Roman army was known for its ability to adapt to different combat situations, employing a variety of formations such as the testudo (tortoise) formation for protection against projectiles.

Fortifications

The Romans were adept at building fortifications, both temporary and permanent.

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Map of Roman legion camps around AD 80

shows the strategic placement of Roman camps, which were often constructed with impressive speed and efficiency.

Equipment

Roman soldiers were equipped with a variety of weapons and armor. The standard equipment included the gladius, a short sword, the pilum, a heavy javelin, and the scutum, a large rectangular shield. Soldiers also wore armor such as the lorica segmentata, a type of segmented armor.

Economy and Logistics

The Roman military was supported by a sophisticated logistical system that ensured the supply of food, weapons, and other necessities. The construction of roads and the use of ships facilitated the movement of troops and supplies across the vast Roman Empire.

Cultural Impact

The Roman military had a significant impact on Roman culture and society. Military service was a path to citizenship for many non-Romans, and veterans were often granted land and other rewards. The military also played a role in the spread of Roman culture and language throughout the empire.

Decline

The decline of the Roman military was a complex process influenced by internal and external factors. Political instability, economic troubles, and pressure from barbarian invasions contributed to the weakening of the Roman military, ultimately leading to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD.

Also see

• Roman Empire
• Roman Republic
• Roman Legion
• Roman Auxilia
• Roman Military Engineering