A Diverse Fighting Force

The “Roman” army was made up of soldiers from many different parts of the Empire.

Auxiliaries were non-citizen soldiers from territories which the Romans had conquered. As the Roman Empire expanded, the army grew and more auxiliaries were recruited. To avoid any potential loyalties to the locals, auxiliaries were employed to fight in countries other than their homeland. Auxiliaries from many different parts of the Empire were sent to the frontier in Britain to serve, including Italia, Gallia, Germania, Hispania, Dalmatia, Thracia, Mauretania, Pannonia, Mesopotamia and Dacia.

Find our more about this diverse fighting force at the Roman Army Museum.