The Roman Military :: essays research papers fc

The strength of the Roman host was the cast that held the Roman Empire together for as long as it lasted. The array was made up of strictly disciplined men whom were ready and unbidden to serve their emperor. The LegionsOutward appearance was extremely important to the Romans and the first intimacy that new recruits learned was to borderland in perfect form. Once they knew how to march they were then assigned to the legions in which they would remain for the next 20 long time of usefulness. (the book) The legions were made up of between 5000 and 5500 men. In a legion in that location were 10 Cohorts and in those Cohorts there were 6 Centuries. Auxiliary troops, although not unremarkably counted as part of a legion, were part of a legion and could shew the number of men from around 5000 to 6000. The number of legions active in the empire was consistently between 25 and 33. (internet, http//museum.simplenet.com/rome/military/military.htm) The average category for auxiliarie s to serve was 25 years or less. After about 20 years in the legions they graduated to a veteran cohort, and continued service there for about 5 years. The soldiers who completed their 25 years of military service to Rome were given a diploma made of bronze. It was really a record of their service throughout the years and a reproduction was kept in soldiers files in Rome. (the book) Equipment and SuppliesSoldiers were forced to have a go at it like turtles, carrying their homes (tents and such) along with them in battle. Their equipment was also a hassle, but protect them well in battle. It consisted of mainly helmets and shields. They also carried personal equipment such as shoes, belts, over garments, etc. A soldier had to carry his weapons and artillery with him as well. He had spears, pilums, and pikes to be heaved at enemies. Pilums are spear like weapons that would be thrown at enemies in an attempt to pierce them through their shields. Gladiuses (swords) and Pugios (dagge rs) were the everyday hand held weapons. The Gladius was the perfect weapon for the legions because of their light weight and maneuverability. The Pugio was not save a weapon of war, but also had many common purposes.