Ronald Embleton – illustratör

The year AD 122 was the first time a Roman Emperor had set foot in the Province of Britannia since the invasion in AD 43.No doubt he had read many reports concerning the damage caused by marauding tribesmen crossing from what is now Scotland into the Province. Hadrian, therefore, decided - in the words of his biographer - 'to build a wall to separate the Romans from the Barbarians'.This engaging work from author Michael Simkins explores in depth the organisation, equipment, weapons and armour of the Roman Army from Hadrian to Constantine, one of the most exciting periods in Roman history.

Although the common Roman fighting men themselves have left no account, much literature has survived from antiquity.The wealth of archaeological finds, plus the study of surviving Roman sculpture has allowed historians to learn much about the nature of the Roman army which conquered an astonishing expanse of territory. Michael Simkins brings all his substantial knowledge to bear on this fascinating subject, covering such topics as army composition, recruitment, training, campaign routine and providing a wealth of detail on weapons, uniforms and equipment.

The year AD 122 was the first time a Roman Emperor had set foot in the Province of Britannia since the invasion in AD 43.No doubt he had read many reports concerning the damage caused by marauding tribesmen crossing from what is now Scotland into the Province. Hadrian, therefore, decided - in the words of his biographer - ''to build a wall to separate the Romans from the Barbarians''.This engaging work from author Michael Simkins explores in depth the organisation, equipment, weapons and armour of the Roman Army from Hadrian to Constantine, one of the most exciting periods in Roman history.