The Roman Military :: essays research papers fc

The strength of the papistic military was the string that held the Roman Empire together for as long as it lasted. The military was do up of strictly disciplined men whom were ready and willing to go to their emperor. The LegionsOutward appearance was extremely important to the Romans and the first thing that sunrise(prenominal) recruits learned was to march in perfect form. Once they knew how to march they were so assigned to the legions in which they would remain for the next 20 years of returns. (the book) The legions were do up of between 5000 and 5500 men. In a legion in that respect were 10 Cohorts and in those Cohorts there were 6 Centuries. Auxiliary troops, although not usually counted as part of a legion, were part of a legion and could raise the spot of men from around 5000 to 6000. The number of legions active in the empire was systematically between 25 and 33. (internet, http//museum.simplenet.com/rome/military/military.htm) The average year for auxiliaries t o distribute 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 actually a record of their service throughout the years and a copy was kept in soldiers files in Rome. (the book) Equipment and SuppliesSoldiers were forced to live same turtles, carrying their homes (tents and such) along with them in battle. Their equipment was also a hassle, but protected them well in battle. It consisted of mainly helmets and shields. They also carried personal equipment such as shoes, belts, everyplace 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 impel at enemies in an attempt to pierce them through their shields. Gladiuses (swords) and Pugios (daggers) we re the common eliminate held weapons. The Gladius was the perfect weapon for the legions because of their light weight and maneuverability. The Pugio was not only a weapon of war, but also had many common purposes.