How was the Roman Army organised?
Soldiers were organised into Legions. These consisted of about 5000 men. Each one of these legions would have their own individual name. For example ‘Victorious’. Each Legion was divided into ten Cohorts. Each Cohort was divided into six Centuries. Each century was commanded by a Centurion. For more information see the bottom of this page. These men were then placed in regimented formations that made it easier to fight and march. Why was it so effective? Roman soldiers were fighting men first and foremost, undertaking rigourous training to ensure that they were in peak physical condition all the time. They had to undertake long marches every morning, weapons drills and often clean their barracks. A combination of practice and fitness meant that Roman soldiers were very effective in battle. They did not just fight however. Soldiers enlisted in the Roman Army were also expected to take up roles as builders and engineers repsonsible for constructing forts, bridges and roads. It was Roman
