Roman Army 31 BC AD 337

The Roman army was an integral part of the society and life of the Empire and exemplifies many aspects of Roman government. This sourcebook presents material which illustrates the life of the army in the field and in the community. The Roman army is remarkable for its detailed organisation and professional structure. It not only extended and protected Rome's territorial empire which was the basis of Western civilisation, but also maintained the politcal power of the emperors. The army was an integral part of the society and life of the empire and illustrated many aspects of Roman government. This sourcebook presents literary and epigraphic material, papyri and coins which illustrate the life of the army from recruitment and in the field, to peacetime and the community. It is designed as a basic tool for students of the Roman army and Roman history in general.