7. Unique Recruitment of Foreigners
The Roman army’s recruitment strategy included enlisting non-citizens, known as auxiliaries, from across the empire. These soldiers often specialized in skills such as archery, cavalry, or light infantry, complementing the citizen legions. In exchange for their service, auxiliaries were granted Roman citizenship upon completion of their term, typically 25 years, thereby integrating diverse peoples into Roman society. This practice not only bolstered the army’s strength but also expanded Rome’s influence and fostered loyalty among its subjects. For more details, see Livius.org: Auxiliaries.
