Roman Military: Phrases and Equipment
Common Latin Phrases Related to War
These Latin phrases, often used in the context of war, have endured through history and are part of modern lexicons.
- Veni, vidi, viciFamously attributed to Julius Caesar after his victory at Zela. - "I came, I saw, I conquered"
- Si vis pacem, para bellumA maxim emphasizing preparedness for conflict to maintain peace. - "If you want peace, prepare for war"
- Dulce et decorum est pro patria moriFrom Horace, often used to glorify sacrifice for one's country. - "It is sweet and honorable to die for one's country"
- Alea iacta estSaid by Caesar when crossing the Rubicon, signifying a point of no return. - "The die is cast"
- Aut viam inveniam aut faciamReflects determination to overcome obstacles. - "I will either find a way or make one"
- Per aspera ad astraSymbolizes achieving greatness through struggle. - "Through hardships to the stars"
- In hoc signo vincesAssociated with Constantine's vision before the Battle of Milvian Bridge. - "In this sign, you will conquer"
- Morituri te salutantWords of gladiators or soldiers facing death. - "Those who are about to die salute you"
- Non ducor, ducoEmphasizes leadership and independence. - "I am not led, I lead"
- Nemo me impune lacessitMotto of the Order of the Thistle, implying retribution for harm. - "No one provokes me with impunity"
Roman Legion Equipment
These terms describe the essential gear used by Roman legionaries, critical to their success in battle.
- HastaA thrusting spear used by early Roman soldiers. - "Spear"
- PilumA javelin designed to bend upon impact, disabling enemy shields. - "Javelin"
- GaleaA protective helmet, often with cheek guards. - "Helmet"
- LoricaBody armor, such as the lorica segmentata, made of metal strips. - "Body armor"
- ScutumA large rectangular shield for defense in formation. - "Shield"
- GladiusA short sword ideal for close combat. - "Sword"
- CaligaeDurable boots designed for long marches. - "Military boots"
- PugioA small dagger used as a backup weapon. - "Dagger"
- BalteusA belt used to carry weapons and gear. - "Belt"
- FascinaBundles of sticks used for fortifications. - "Bundle of sticks"
The hasta and pilum were primary weapons, while the galea and lorica offered protection. The scutum provided additional defense, and the gladius was used in close combat.
The caligae were sturdy boots for marching, the pugio served as a backup weapon, the balteus held equipment, and the fascina was used for fortifications.
The Hastati
The Hastati were young, less experienced infantry in the Roman Republican army, forming the first line of the triplex acies formation, alongside the Principes and Triarii. They were equipped with a hasta (spear) and gladius (sword).
Named after the hasta, their primary weapon, the Hastati were initially wealthy citizens who supplied their own gear. Later, the state provided equipment as the army grew. In battle, they charged first with spears, switching to swords if needed. If they failed to break the enemy, they retreated, allowing the Principes to advance. The Hastati were often used as a shock force to weaken the enemy before the more experienced lines took over.
.png "Ukrainian Culture")
.png "Ukrainian Shopping")
