The Imperial Roman Army

The Imperial Roman Army, active from 27 BC to 476 AD, was the military force of the Roman Empire. It consisted of legions, each with about 5,000 heavy infantrymen, and auxiliary units made up of non-citizens providing specialized skills like cavalry and archery. Under Emperor Augustus, the army had around 250,000 soldiers, which grew to about 450,000 by 211 AD. The army was highly organized, with legions divided into cohorts and centuries, led by centurions. Soldiers underwent rigorous training and discipline, making them highly effective in battle. The army played a crucial role in expanding and defending the empire’s vast territories, leaving a lasting legacy on military organization and tactics.