The Army of the Roman Republic : from the Regal Period to the Army of Julius Caesar / Michael M Sage.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Sage, Michael M., author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Rome--History--Republic, 265-30 B.C.

Rome.

Rome--History, Military--265-30 B.C.

Rome--Army.

Rome--Military antiquities.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (xiv, 332 pages, 8 unnumbered pages of plates) : illustrations, maps

Place of Publication:

Barnsley, South Yorkshire : Pen & Sword Military, [2018]

Summary:

From the moment its last king was expelled (traditionally in 753) the Roman Republic had to fight for its very survival. Centuries of almost continuous warfare saw Rome's armies evolve in response to a wide variety of threats which were met with mixed fortunes though always with ultimate success. As defence of the homeland turned to territorial expansion, Roman forces also had to adapt to sustained campaigns in varied terrain and climates, not to mention the changes in the Roman republic itself. Michael Sage traces the development of the republic's army from its foundation (having first set the context of their regal antecedents), down to the time of its most famous leader, Julius Caesar. The transition from clan-based forces, through the 'Servian' levy and the development of the manipular and cohortal legion is examined along with the associated weapons, tactics and operational capabilities. We see how the legions shaped up against the challenges of successive enemies from the Celts and Samnites, the Carthaginians and the hitherto-dominant Hellenistic armies based on the Macedonian-style pike phalanx.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 311-320) and index.

Description based on print version record.

ISBN:

9781473880962

1473880963

9781473880948

1473880947

9781473880955

1473880955