How did a Roman soldier become a centurion?

Most centurions were of plebeian origin and were promoted from the ranks of the common soldiers. They formed the backbone of the legion and were responsible for enforcing discipline. They received much higher pay and a greater share of the spoils than did common soldiers.

How were Roman soldiers selected?

According to ancient sources, the Roman army had a selection process when recruiting new soldiers for the legions. It consisted of a physical, an intellectual and a final legal exam, since the young people who took this probatio or test had to prove that they were Roman citizens.

Were Roman soldiers loyal to their duty?

Keeping the army on side As future Emperors would discover, while soldiers were loyal to their emperor, this loyalty was nothing compared to the loyalty felt by many legions to their commanders. Holding the monopoly on force that underpinned empire and emperor, the army was always politically important.

Could a non Roman be a centurion?

The post was open to non-Latins and centurions could be appointed through election, appointment by the Roman Senate or promotion from the ranks, especially for those who displayed great bravery or leadership qualities in battle but, in the Imperial Period, also as a direct commission without prior military experience.

Why was the Roman army successful?

This training combined with having the most advanced equipment at the time made the Roman army really powerful. The Roman army had many weapons and tactics that other armies hadn’t even heard of before! They would use huge catapults which were able to fling rocks over distances of several hundred meters.

What was life like for a Roman soldier?

Life for Roman soldiers was tough, especially for those at Housesteads on the cold frontier of the Empire. As well as standing for hours on guard duty, looking out over the wall or going on patrol, the soldiers had to spend two hours a day training with their weapons, and stayed fit by running.

What age could you join the Roman Army?

A legionary had to be over 17 years old and a Roman citizen. Every new recruit had to be fighting fit – anyone who was weak or too short was rejected. Legionaries signed up for at least 25 years’ service. But if they survived their time, they were rewarded with a gift of land they could farm.

How good was the Roman Army?

How successful was the Roman Army?