Complete the worksheet in pairs to find out what today’s lesson is about

1. Complete the worksheet in pairs to find out what today’s lesson is about • When you know the answer raise your hand!

2. Focus Question: How was the Roman Army organised and why was this important?

3. Types of soldiers Size Strength/Success What do we already think about the Roman Army? Control Tactics Activities

4. Task 2: • Complete the worksheet using the information in this slideshow. • We will go through it as a class, but if you have any questions don’t be afraid to ask!

5. Organisation of the Army • The main part of the army was the LEGION • This was made up of 6000 men under the command of the LEGATE

6. Army Divisions • The legion was divided into ten cohorts • Each cohort was made up of six centuries • The centuries were commanded by a centurion • Centuries originally had 100 men

7. Centurions • 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 and corrupt. They would carry a vine stick which they used to beat soldiers and took bribes from men who wanted to avoid certain duties.

8. 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. If a legion lost its standard or eagle in battle then every tenth man would be executed.

9. How to become a Legionary! • You had to be a Roman citizen • You had to be physically fit and 1.6m tall (5’2) • You were expected to stay in the army for 25 years

10. “ Experts have shown that choosing men is just like choosing horses and dogs… The recruit should be broad-chested, with powerful shoulders and brawny arms. His fingers should be long. He should not be pot-bellied or fat bottomed. His calves and feet should not be flabby. When you find all these qualities in a recruit you can afford to take him even if he is a little on the short side… The whole well-being of the Roman state depends on the kinds of recruits you choose.” Vegetius

11. Auxiliaries • These were soldiers from lands conquered by the Romans who volunteered to fight for the Romans. • They had special Skills i.e. Archers and cavalrymen. • Most fought with a sword and short spear • They were thought of by Romans as second class soldiers , paid less and not trained as rigorously. • Many joined because after 25 years- they became Citizens (and their children too!)

12. Training • Most soldiers joined between 18-20 years old • There were three 30km marches each month (that’s 18.6 miles!) • On each march the legionaries would carry 25 kilos of equipment

13. Training • Legionaries would also learn manoeuvres, or drills, for battle. • New recruits were given shields and swords twice as heavy as the real thing! • Soldiers were trained to slash the back of the enemy’s legs!

14. Discipline • Deserters and soldiers who left their posts were beaten to death by the men whose lives they had put at risk. • Any soldiers who were cowards or failed to work as a team during a battle were stoned to death.

15. Rewards • But it wasn’t all bad! For bravery there were awards for different ranks, such as medals, arm and neck bands or torques. Gold crowns and silver spears were given to officers. • Soldiers could also capture the riches of their enemies, if they beat them!

16. Task 3: Legion made up of 6000 men • Copy this diagram into your books Divided into 10 cohorts Divided into 6 centuries 100 100 100 100 100 100 (Each century had 100 men)

17. Task 3: In your books answer these questions: 1. Which was the biggest group in the Roman army? 2. What was the role of the Centurion? 3. What were the requirements to join for legionaries? 4. How old were most people when they joined? 5. List the different ways in which soldiers were trained.

18. Extension Questions 6. How and why were soldiers disciplined? Do you think this would have been effective? 7. Why was it important for the Romans to have a strong army? • What were the benefits of being a Roman soldier? 9. What were the disadvantages of being a Roman soldier?

19. Final Thought.. • Why do you think the organisation of the Roman Army was important?