Question 1

How long did a Roman soldier serve in the Imperial period?

Accepted Answer

Under Augustus, legionaries served for 16 years, later extended to 20 years, plus 5 years as a veteran (evocatus). Auxiliaries served 25 years. After discharge, soldiers received a pension (praemia) or land grant. Service terms were strictly enforced, and desertion was punishable by death.

Question 2

What was the difference between a legionary and an auxiliary?

Accepted Answer

Legionaries were Roman citizens who served in legions, the elite heavy infantry. They were better paid and equipped. Auxiliaries were non-citizens from the provinces who served in supporting roles: cavalry, archers, or light infantry. They earned Roman citizenship for themselves and their children upon completion of 25 years of service.

Question 3

Why was the Roman army so successful?

Accepted Answer

Key factors included discipline, standardised equipment, and flexible tactics. Soldiers trained rigorously, and units could form testudo (tortoise) for protection or fight in open order. The army also had excellent logistics, building roads and forts to supply troops. Leadership was professional, with centurions providing experienced command.

Question 4

What was the Praetorian Guard?

Accepted Answer

The Praetorian Guard was an elite unit of soldiers tasked with protecting the emperor and his family. Founded by Augustus, they were stationed in Rome and enjoyed higher pay and privileges. However, they became politically powerful, often assassinating emperors or selling the throne to the highest bidder (e.g., in AD 193).

Question 5

How did the Roman army change under the emperors?

Accepted Answer

Augustus professionalised the army by setting fixed pay, terms of service, and a pension system. He created the Praetorian Guard and established the aerarium militare (military treasury). Later emperors like Hadrian built frontier walls (e.g., Hadrian's Wall) and reduced expansion. Septimius Severus increased army pay and allowed soldiers to marry, changing the army's social role.

Question 6

What was life like for a Roman soldier on Hadrian's Wall?

Accepted Answer

Soldiers lived in forts like Vindolanda, with barracks, baths, and a hospital. They patrolled the wall, manned watchtowers, and controlled trade. Life was monotonous but included religious worship, gambling, and writing letters (like the Vindolanda tablets). They ate a diet of grain, meat, and vegetables, and faced harsh weather and occasional attacks from tribes.

The Roman Military in the Imperial Period

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

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