answersLogoWhite

0

The basic infantry weapons were first the spear and the sword. They used several ranks - light infantry with javelins, swordsmen with shields forming a shield wall, and a rear line of veteran spearmen.

The spear became a javelin (pilum) with an iron spike and a thicker wooden body of a suitable size to be gripped when throwing. The iron spike was attached to a wooden shaft by two wooden pins, one weaker than the other. On impact the weaker pin broke, so the enemy could not throw it back. If it lodged in a shield, the shaft flopped down, impeding the user's mobility and ability to protect himself.

The sword was the Spanish sword - a short two sided blade adapted from Spain, and used mainly for stabbing.

The shield was curved rectangular. The Romans gave up the shield wall, spacing men a bit apart to give them fighting room to manoeuvre against opponents. Enemy who broke through the gaps were dealt with by waiting succeeding ranks.

In support were auxiliary light infantry armed with bows, javelins and slings. Also cavalry with javelins, bows, swords, at first comprising the few Romans wealthy enough to be able to support a horse (then the state provided them, plus wealthy widows also had to contribute and maintain horses), but as cavalry became more pervasive against horsed invaders, auxiliary cavalry were hired (Germans, Numidians).

Also, missile projectors of various types were provided to harrass enemy formations as a softening up for an attack. As well there was a seige train, which provided the engines necessary to attack fortifications.

User Avatar

Wiki User

11y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

Where did ancient Romans find there weapons?

The Romans made their weapons.


Why did Romans use weapons?

The Romans used weapons to fight and win their opponent. Romans had at least two weapons on them at the same time just to be safe. :)


Why did Romans make weapons?

The Romans made weapons for the same reasons as all the other ancient peoples. They made them for the army and some people bought weapons for self-defence.


Did the ancient Romans invent weapons?

No, there were weapons way before the Roman Empire.


What are the Romans weapons?

sword bow and arrow


How has Roman weapons helped in life?

Our world wouldn't be the same today if it weren't for the Romans. The Romans invented bridges, roads, pavements and constitutional law. All weapons these days are only updated weapons from what the Romans used. The Roman originated from Italy. Viva Italia!


Did Romans make their own weapons for war?

Yes.


What are the release dates for Conquest - 2002 Weapons of the Romans 2-6?

Conquest - 2002 Weapons of the Romans 2-6 was released on: USA: 17 August 2003


What you still have from the Romans?

Art, weapons, battle strategy, history


What did the conquerors of Egypt have that gave them an advantage over the Egyptians?

The conquerors of Egypt had an advantage of Romans because of their weapons.


Why did the Romans make weapons?

For the same reason as anyone else: to fight.


What ancient civlization developed advanced weapons and strategies?

The Egyptians, Hittites, Assyrians, Greeks and Romans developed advanced weapons and strategies.