1. THE ROMAN ARMY

2. In Rome the army was the nation: no citizen could take office unless he had served in ten campaigns.

3. Military Organization
Centuries — 100 armed men
Headed by Centurian (from the ranks)
Maniples—3 Centuries
Could move quickly through difficult terrain
Independent decisions
Legions—groups of Maniples
6000 men
Supported by light cavalry
Discipline
Death for individual insubordination
Decimation for cowardice

4. How was the Roman Army organized?
Main part of the army was the LEGION
This was made up of 5000 to 6000 men under the command of the LEGATE

5. How the Roman Army was organized
The legion was divided into ten groups
Each group was made up of six centuries
The centuries were commanded by a centurion
Centuries had 100 men

6. How the Roman Army was organized
The centurions were very important men
They were responsible for training the soldiers under their command and making sure everyone obeyed orders.
Some were very cruel

7. Standard Bearers Each century had its own emblem or standard.
This was carried by the standard bearer, a very experienced and trusted soldier
To lose your standard was a great disgrace

8. How to become a Legionary!
You had to be a Roman citizen
You had to be physically fit and 5’4” tall
You were expected to stay in the army for 25 years

9. Training Most soldiers joined between 18-20 years old
There were three 18.5 mile-marches each month
On each march the legionary would carry 55 pounds of equipment

10. Training Legionaries would also learn drill, or marching
This was important for learning movements in battle
New recruits were given shields and swords twice as heavy as the real thing!

11. Maneuvers
Wedge Formation
Tortoise Formation
Charge

12. Maneuvers
Repelling Cavalry Attack
Last Stand

13. Who else was in the Army?
Auxiliaries- These were soldiers from lands conquered by the Romans who volunteered to fight for the Romans
many of these had special skills- like cavalry soldiers

14. Auxiliaries Archers Most fought with a sword and short spear
Thought of by Romans as second class soldiers , paid less and not trained as rigorously
After 25 years- they became Citizens (and their children too!)

15. Bibliography http://www.lore-and-saga.co.uk/assets/images/Legion1.JPG
html/ger/legio.html
rome-army.htm
702-augustus.html
By Mr Bargery downloaded from
Changes by Mr. Lauta