We have been continuing our study of the Roman Empire by looking at Roman soldiers. Just what was it that made the Roman Army such a successful fighting machine?
We learnt that the Roman Army was highly organised, with a strict hierarchy of officers. Soldiers were well equipped with weapons and armour, carrying a huge wooden shield (called a scutum) to defend themselves against attack.
Roman soldiers were highly disciplined: they had to complete a 30km march (in full battle dress) at least three times a month, and faced a gruelling daily drill, marching and practising for battle. Punishments were very severe for any disobedient soldiers, but there were valuable rewards for those who did well.
On the battlefield, the Romans were ruthlessly efficient, owing to their many hours of practice. Different battle formations helped the soldiers to conquer their enemies: the famous 'testudo' (or tortoise) formation enabled the soldiers to defend themselves from arrows overhead, but the soldiers could also make a v-shaped 'wedge' formation to penetrate enemy lines, or the circular 'orb' formation to protect their most important officers from attack.
Once we'd learnt the basics, it was time for 3V to take up the challenge. Would they be good enough to be Roman soldiers? We headed out to the playground with our (admittedly rather small) shields to find out...
After a quick march round (it was quite chilly, after all), we attempted the testudo formation. The front row held their shields in front as a protection, while those following behind held shields aloft to protect the soldiers' heads from any stray enemy arrows.
Lastly, we attempted the circular orb formation, protecting the mighty Centurion Mrs Miller, who can just about be spotted in the centre!
Having sampled a taste of Roman life, 3V were extremely keen to join the Roman army. Sadly, Mrs Vaqueiro thinks that they need a lot more practice first!
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