The Impressive Training and Recruitment of Rome’s Legions

Summary

This video script explores the Roman military's renowned training system during the Early Roman Empire, highlighting the selection criteria for recruits, such as physical attributes and cultural background. It details the rigorous four-month trial, emphasizing marching, swimming, and combat skills, including the use of the gladius, scutum, javelins, and slings. The script also touches on the importance of literacy for administrative roles and the advanced training of cavalry. The comprehensive training regimen contributed to the Roman army's exceptional performance and high win-to-loss ratio.

Takeaways

• 🏛️ The Roman military's high win-to-loss ratio was attributed to its complex military system developed over centuries, focusing on creating the ideal soldier.
• 🌍 Romans preferred recruits from certain areas and nations, considering the impact of climate and culture on their militaristic tendencies and resilience.
• 🏡 Country recruits were favored over city dwellers due to their early life struggles, familiarity with tools, and adaptability to hunger.
• 💪 Physical fitness, including good eyesight and specific body proportions like wide shoulders and a small waist, were key selection criteria for Roman soldiers.
• 📏 A minimum height requirement of 5.7 Roman feet was set for infantry, with taller soldiers being more favorable, especially for the 1st cohort and cavalry.
• 🧠 Attributes like quick thinking, good manners, a reputable family background, and even a sense of humor were considered for assessing a recruit's potential.
• 📚 Literacy was valued, with literate soldiers often given positions to keep records and accounts, and in later times, even considered for Centurion positions.
• 🚶‍♂️ Marching was a crucial skill taught to recruits, emphasizing coordination, unit cohesion, and the ability to navigate tough terrains and deploy quickly for battle.
• 🏊 All recruits, regardless of their role, were taught to swim, which had practical applications in crossing rivers and dealing with floods.
• ⚔️ Combat training involved the use of wooden practice weapons heavier than the originals to build strength and accuracy for real combat.
• 🏹 In addition to melee weapons, all legionaries were trained to use slings and javelins, with some also skilled in archery, making the Roman army versatile in both close and long-range combat.
• 🐎 Cavalry training included vaulting on and off horses, even while fully armored, to prepare for quick mounts and dismounts in battle scenarios.

Q & A

What was the primary goal of the Roman military system's development?

The primary goal of the Roman military system was to create the ideal soldier, unmatched by other European nations of antiquity, through centuries of trial and error.

Why did the Romans prefer recruits from rural areas over those from cities?

Romans preferred rural recruits because they were more accustomed to the struggles of life, knew how to use various tools, and their bodies were more used to hunger, making them better suited for military life.

What physical characteristics were favored in Roman recruits?

Romans favored recruits with good physical shape, good eyesight, wide shoulders, a small waist, and a minimum height of 5.7 Roman feet, with anything over that being highly favorable.

Why was a sense of humor considered an important trait in Roman recruits?

A sense of humor was considered important as it implied a positive attitude and a capable, healthy mind, which were useful in uplifting the morale of the army during times of war.

What was the significance of literacy among Roman recruits?

Literacy was significant as literate soldiers could keep records and accounts, and by the late Roman Empire, they were even considered for the position of Centurion due to their ability to read and write.

Why was marching such an important skill for Roman recruits?

Marching was important for teaching coordination, unit cohesion, and maintaining straight ranks and proper distance from each other, which were fundamental to the Roman way of war.

What was the purpose of teaching all recruits, including infantry and cavalry, to swim?

Teaching all recruits to swim served to strengthen muscles, build up the immune system for cold weather and disease, and prepare them for dealing with floods or crossing rivers.

Why were recruits taught to stab with the gladius instead of slashing?

Stabbing exposed less of the arm to the enemy, was more comfortable in tight formations, and was more likely to land a lethal blow than slashing, which could be stopped by armor or bones.

How did the use of wooden practice weapons affect the recruits' training?

Using wooden practice weapons that were heavier than the originals helped increase muscle growth, comfort, accuracy, and speed when using the actual weapons in combat.

What role did the sling play in the Roman military, and why was it so effective?

The sling was an underappreciated weapon in the Roman military, effective for its ability to launch projectiles that were hard to spot and could shatter bones and internal organs upon impact.

Why was vaulting on and off a horse an important skill for Roman cavalry?

Vaulting was important for the way Roman cavalry operated and fought, allowing them to skillfully mount and dismount quickly under unexpected alarms or even mid-battle.

What did the final step of the recruit's training process involve?

The final step involved the recruits making a military oath and being branded with a symbol on their hands, marking their transition from recruits to legionaries.

Outlines

00:00

🏺 Roman Military Recruitment and Training Overview

This paragraph delves into the Roman military's renowned reputation and its meticulous recruitment and training process during the Early Roman Empire. It discusses the preference for rural recruits due to their familiarity with hardship and physical preparedness. The paragraph also highlights the selection criteria, which included physical attributes like height and build, as well as personal qualities such as quick thinking, good manners, and literacy. The importance of maintaining strict discipline and the belief in certain regions producing better soldiers are also emphasized.

05:01

🏹 Advanced Roman Military Training Techniques

The second paragraph focuses on the advanced training techniques of the Roman military, emphasizing the importance of marching for coordination and unit cohesion. It details the physical demands placed on recruits, such as long marches with heavy equipment and the necessity of maintaining ranks during formation changes. The paragraph also covers the requirement for all recruits to learn to swim, the use of wooden practice weapons to build strength and accuracy, and the incorporation of ranged weapons like slings and bows into their training regimen. Additionally, it touches on the training of cavalry in vaulting and performing maneuvers while on the march.

10:02

🛡 The Transformation from Recruit to Legionary

The final paragraph describes the transition from recruit to legionary after a grueling four-month trial period, which included continuous drills and practical tasks. It outlines the process of making a military oath and the branding of a symbol on the recruits' hands, signifying their official status as legionaries. The paragraph also notes that despite passing the training, these new legionaries were still viewed as recruits by experienced generals until they proved themselves in battle. The importance of ongoing training for both recruits and veterans throughout their service is underscored, highlighting the relentless nature of Roman military preparation.

Keywords

💡Roman military

The Roman military refers to the armed forces of ancient Rome, renowned for its discipline, organization, and effectiveness. In the video, it is highlighted as having one of the highest win-to-loss ratios in history, which is attributed to its complex military system. The script discusses the recruitment and training processes that contributed to the Roman military's dominance during the Early Roman Empire.

💡win-to-loss ratio

A win-to-loss ratio is a statistical measure used to evaluate the performance of a sports team or, in this case, an army. It is calculated by dividing the number of wins by the number of losses. The video emphasizes that the Roman military had one of the highest win-to-loss ratios, indicating its consistent success in battles and campaigns.

💡recruitment

Recruitment in the context of the Roman military involved the selection and enlistment of soldiers. The script explains that Romans preferred recruits from rural areas due to their familiarity with hard work and resilience. The process also included physical examinations and assessments for desirable traits, such as good health and physical stature.

💡training methods

Training methods refer to the various practices and exercises used to prepare Roman soldiers for warfare. The video outlines several training techniques, including marching, swimming, and combat drills, which were designed to instill discipline, physical fitness, and combat skills in the recruits.

💡Early Roman Empire

The Early Roman Empire denotes the period of Roman history characterized by its military dominance and expansion. The video focuses on this era, arguing that the strict recruitment and training practices of this period were key to the Roman military's success and that deviations from these practices contributed to the Empire's later decline.

💡Vegetius

Vegetius was a Roman military writer whose works, such as 'De Re Militari', provide insights into Roman military practices. In the script, Vegetius is cited as believing that the Roman Empire's deterioration was partly due to straying from the strict recruitment and training standards of the Early Empire.

💡military oath

A military oath is a solemn promise or commitment made by soldiers to uphold certain principles and duties. In the context of the Roman military, the script mentions that recruits had to swear an oath after completing their training trial, symbolizing their formal acceptance into the ranks of the legionaries.

💡Gladius

The Gladius was a type of short sword used by Roman soldiers. The script describes its use in training, where recruits practiced with wooden versions of the Gladius to master stabbing techniques, which were favored over slashing due to tactical advantages in close combat.

💡Scutum

The Scutum was a large rectangular shield used by Roman soldiers for protection and as a part of their offensive tactics. The script mentions its use in training to practice forming defensive and offensive formations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining ranks and coordination in battle.

💡javelin

A javelin is a spear designed to be thrown by hand. The script explains that all recruits, regardless of their role, were trained to throw javelins, using heavier practice versions to improve accuracy and strength. This skill was crucial for the Roman military's ability to engage enemies at medium range.

💡sling

A sling is a simple but effective weapon consisting of a pouch attached to two cords, used to hurl projectiles. The script highlights the underappreciated fact that every Roman legionary was trained to use a sling, which was considered more effective than bows in certain situations due to its stealth and lethal impact.

Highlights

The Roman military had an impressive win-to-loss ratio due to a complex and intricate military system developed over centuries.

Romans preferred recruits from rural areas due to their familiarity with hardship and ability to use various tools.

Recruits from cities underwent a different training program to adapt to the rigors of military life.

Physical examinations for recruits included checks for good health, wide shoulders, and specific height requirements.

Traits like 'lively eyes' and a good sense of humor were considered indicators of quick thinking and positive attitude.

Literacy was valued, with literate soldiers often given positions to keep records and accounts.

Training included a four-month trial period with intensive drills and a military oath for successful recruits.

March discipline was crucial, with recruits performing long marches carrying heavy equipment.

Swimming was a mandatory skill, enhancing physical strength and preparing for river crossings and floods.

Combat training emphasized the use of the 'Gladius' for stabbing rather than slashing to maximize lethality.

Practice weapons were heavier than the originals to improve muscle strength and combat readiness.

All recruits, including infantry and cavalry, were trained to use a sling, an underappreciated but effective weapon.

Cavalry training included vaulting on and off horses, even while fully armored and armed.

Training was rigorous for both recruits and veterans, with veterans training once a day and recruits more frequently.

Recruits were also tasked with practical duties like digging trenches and collecting wood to prepare for military life.

After the four-month trial, recruits were branded with a symbol on their hands, signifying their transition to legionaries.

The decline of the Roman Empire was partly attributed to the deviation from the strict recruitment and training standards of the Early Empire.

Transcripts

For centuries, the Roman military was feared for its reputation of glory,

as it boasts one of the highest win-to-loss ratios of any army in

history. This was, at core, due to their very complex and intricate

military system, that was developed from centuries of

trial and error with the sole goal of creating the ideal

soldier; unmatched by the other European nations of antiquity.

This system applied not only to training, but also the very selection

and recruitment of soldiers. Today, I will go over the particular qualities the

romans looked out for and preferred when choosing their recruits, as well as

the many training methods they highly relied upon.

This video will be specifically based on the system of the Early Roman Empire,

which was arguably the peak of roman military dominance. Many, such as

Vegetius, go as far as to believe that one of the biggest reasons for the Roman

Empire's deterioration was due to them straying away from this

very strict level of recruitment and training.

First of all, it is important to understand that the Romans strongly

believed that some areas, and even nations, were better for recruiting than

others. Even though every legionary recruit had

to be a Roman citizen, they were aware of the effects that climate and culture had

on people; some nations had a more militaristic

culture, while others were more concerned with trade;

Some people grew up in cities, while others in the countryside.

These were the first things that had to be considered when raising the Legion.

As a general rule, recruits from the countryside were preferred over those

from the city because they were more accustomed to the

struggles of life from an early age. They also surely knew how to use the

many tools that would be used in the army, and their bodies were more used to

hunger. These were the men that were preferred,

and the romans always tried to have most of their army recruited from the

countryside. Men from the cities were also taken in,

but they had to undergo a slightly different program. They were to be

trained extra hard in order to be brought into shape.

They were also taught to bear the weather, use various tools

and had to be stationed as far as possible from their city so that they

forget about its luxuries and comfort. After drawing up the recruits, a careful

examination began with particular emphasis on certain

desirable feats. The more obvious ones included: a good

physical shape and good eyesight; both indicators of a healthy body, good

genetics, and a promising soldier. Wide shoulders

and a small waist were particularly favored.

A height of 5.7 roman feet was a requirement for all infantry,

with anything over that being highly favorable. A strict requirement for a

height of six roman feet was set to join the 1st cohort and cavalry of each

Legion. But sometimes, a lack of height could be

compensated with a particularly strong physique.

Some of the less obvious feats involved: in the words of Vegetius, the

characteristic of "lively eyes", which was an indicator that the man was of quick

thinking and a quick mind. Good manners as well as a reputable

family were indicators of the ability to obey orders and show respect.

Interestingly, even sense of humor was taken into account,

as having one would imply a positive attitude as well as a capable and

healthy mind; both very useful in times of war to

uplift the general mood and morale of the army. Literacy was

another skill that was looked for. Any soldier that could read and write

was given a position to keep records and accounts sometimes even

under the tribunes themselves. As I stated before, the Roman army

started to deteriorate throughout the years

and by the time of the late Roman Empire, literate recruits were even immediately

considered for the position of Centurion; being in charge of 80 men simply due to

the ability to read and write, but in the time of the Early Empire this

was unheard of. The chosen recruits now began their

training. This was to be part of their four-month

trial. Those that wouldn't make it would be rejected,

while those that passed it would swear a military oath and become legionaries.

At no point during this period were recruits taken into battle if they have

not completed this trial. The first skill all recruits were taught

was the march. This was the most important in their

training and it had many advantageous side effects for the men.

By performing synchronized marches, they were taught the importance of

coordination and unit cohesion; the very backbone of the Roman way of

war. Every week they would perform a long march

of 20 roman miles (18 miles or 30 km) in just five hours, while carrying 60 pounds (27 kg) of equipment on

them. They would typically march 10 miles away

from the camp, then 10 miles back. Once a while, a forced march was ordered,

and the men had to complete 24 roman miles (22 miles or 35 km) within the same five

hours. From their first to last day in the army, the men were constantly taught

to maintain straight ranks and a proper distance

away from each other, especially when changing formations. They

could be ordered to quickly double or triple the depth of the ranks,

or form a wedge or a defensive orb formation, all the while maintaining the

distance between each other, and keeping the ranks straight. This was

a lot harder than it might sound, and much practice was needed to perfect this.

But no imperial unit would be considered battle ready without these particular

skills. As in today's military, maintaining ranks

and marching were the most repeated of their drills.

On a larger scale, proper marching also had its benefits,

as it allowed the Legion to navigate through tough terrain

and quickly deploy for battle, all the while maintaining order in case of an

unexpected engagement. It also made it harder for men to desert

or get lost from their unit. The next skill that was enforced was

rather interesting; all recruits, no matter if they were

infantry, cavalry, or even servants, were taught to swim.

This also had significant uses the most obvious being the strengthening of

countless muscles throughout the body, as well as a built-up immune system for

cold weather and disease. The more interesting use for swimming

was their techniques of dealing with floods or crossing rivers.

I plan to dedicate an entire video solely on the many techniques the Romans

used to accomplish this, as many of them were beyond fascinating

and truly deserve a video of their own. It is only now that the recruits will

begin their real combat training. They will each use a wooden practice

"Gladius" and "Scutum" to practice various drills,

like quickly sprinting forward to deliver a blow, then quickly lowering

back behind the shield, or practicing chains of attack. Despite

the gladius's fairly capable ability to slash,

the recruits were taught to stab with it instead. This was due to several

interesting reasons: Firstly, when performing a stab, less of

the arm is exposed to the enemy than if they were to slash with it.

Secondly, a stab is a lot more comfortable to perform than a slash

in a typical Roman tight formation, as it limits the possibility of wounding

fellow soldiers nearby. Thirdly, a slash is more likely to be

stopped by armor or bones, making it very difficult to land a

lethal blow. With a stab, however, a cut no deeper than two inches is more

than enough to prove lethal. Furthermore, you wouldn't need a lot of

force to perform such a stab, so it saves a lot of energy in combat

and is a big factor to why the Legions were known to have unrivaled stamina in

battle. An interesting fact is that the wooden

"Gladius" and "Scutum" that the Romans used for practice

would be twice the weight of their original counterparts. This was purposely

done to increase muscle growth as well as comfort accuracy and speed

when using the originals in real combat. The recruits would train with these

several times a day, either with a wooden pole,

fellow recruits, or with professional gladiators who were specifically chosen

to instruct the recruits. The recruits would train in open fields

because Romans strongly believed that subjecting yourself to weather

raises the immune system and prevents disease and sickness.

So, even during the winter when it didn't snow, they forced their recruits

and veterans to train outside, but during especially tough weather,

large halls were constructed for shelter and the training continued inside them.

Every man had to learn to throw a javelin.

The practice javelins were also significantly heavier than the originals

in order to increase both accuracy and the muscles in the shoulders and back.

Furthermore, every recruit and legionary constantly practiced using the sling.

This is perhaps one of the biggest underappreciated facts about the Legions,

which is constantly overlooked by modern references.

It is a fact that every Imperial legionary not only owned,

but knew how to effectively use a sling. The weapon was so respected by the

Romans and their enemies, that it sometimes was thought to be more

effective than bows and arrows, as it's projectiles are harder to spot

and could shatter bones and internal organs just by impact.

It was probably a demoralizing fact for Rome's enemies that all five thousand

legionaries of every Legion were able to accurately hurl sharpened

stones from afar. As if this was not enough, we are also

told that a fourth of the youngest and most fit legionaries

and recruits were trained to use bows; either on foot

or horseback, and practice them daily. From their

system of training we can imagine just why the Legions were so effective;

they not only were superbly equipped with the best armor and melee weapons of

the age, but also could take on the role of

missile troops each being able to launch deadly javelins at medium range, and

arrows and stones at long range. Even this is not taking into account

all the specialized auxiliary archers and artillery

that would be attached to every Legion.

All cavalry, regardless if they were recruits or veterans, daily practiced vaulting on and off a

horse. This skill was very important for the way Roman cavalry operated and

fought. The recruits were first taught how to

vault without armor, but every combat-ready cavalryman was

able to perform a vault while fully armored and even while carrying arms

like a shield and spear. This enabled them to skillfully mount on

and off a horse in an instant under unexpected alarms or even

mid-battle. As the infantry performed its weekly

marches, the cavalry was expected to march with them the same distance

but, they were expected to constantly execute small drills

while on march like charging forward only to retreat and regroup back into

formation, or practicing various maneuvers and

scouting ahead. To get the cavalrymen and horses even more comfortable with each

other, they were purposely tasked to march

through tough uneven terrain. It was common, for example, for both

infantry and cavalry to perform their weekly marches by scaling mountains.

As you could probably tell by now, training was done extensively to both

recruits and veterans. The only difference being that veterans were

allowed to train for combat only once a day,

while the recruits did it more than once; typically in the morning and afternoon.

The recruits would also have to dig trenches and collect wood

throughout the days. This whole system of training would be very difficult for the

recruits, and many would not make it past this

initial four-month trial. Only the performance of the veterans

would have shown them that this new way of life was possible and achievable.

After completing four months of continuous drills, the recruits had to

make a military oath and were branded with a symbol on their

hands; most probably with a hot iron. This would be their final day as

recruits, and they could now consider themselves

legionaries, but any experienced general would still see them as recruits,

as it is one thing to pass the drills and trial and another to execute them in

the chaos of battle and not flee. Nevertheless, these drills were

the core of the training that the legionaries repeated

for all 20 years of their service. I'd like to give a warm thanks to all my

loyal Patreon supporters, as well as all the viewers for watching.

I can't wait to see you all in the next one!