The Roman army was one of the most successful fighting forces in history. Its organization and tactics were highly advanced and were unequaled until the modern era. Spectacular monuments to its perseverance and engineering skill are still visible today, most notably Hadrian’s Wall and the siegeworks around the fortress of Masada.
This book is the first to examine in detail not just the early imperial army but also the citizens’ militia of the Republic and the army of the later Empire. The unprecedented scope and longevity of Roman military success is placed in the context of ordinary soldiers’ daily lives, whether spent in the quiet routine of a peaceful garrison or in arduous campaign and violent combat. Key battles and tactics are described, and there are brief biographies of the great commanders.
Drawing on archaeology, ancient art, and original documentary sources, this book presents the most convincing history ever published of the Roman army.
Introduction: A Brief Survey of Roman History
Chapter 1. The Origins of the Roman Army
Chapter 2. The 'Polybian' Legion
Chapter 4. The Militia Army: Triumphs and Decline
Chapter 5. The Post-Marian Roman Army
Chapter 6. The Army of the Principate
Chapter 7. Senatorial Officers under the Principate
Chapter 8. Equestrian Officers under the Principate
Chapter 9. Other Officers: The Centurionate and Below
Chapter 10. Joining the Roman Army
Chapter 12. The Rewards of Service
Chapter 22. Changes in the Late Roman Army
Chapter 23. Soldiers and Warfare in Late Antiquity