The essential element of the Roman army While the legions of the Roman Imperial Army became both legendary and emblematic of the power of ancient Rome throughout its empire, it was inevitable-as with all empires which have expanded to the point where they must control vast and widely dispersed territories-that the core forces of the original state would be insufficient to allow such widespread policing or effective defence throughout the empire as would often be necessary. Auxiliary troops have been employed throughout history, and those from this early period, raised among and manned by the peoples of the Roman world played a vital-if often unsung-role in the service of the state by providing specific military specialities and reinforcements for the legions on campaign and in garrison. This finely researched work examines the role of the auxilia from its strength to its organisation-both infantry and cavalry-in the first and second centuries AD. Recruitment and distribution of units is considered together with its role at war and in defence of the vulnerable frontiers of the empire. The work concludes with an examination of arms and armour employed by auxiliary forces. A book for serious students of the subject, this title is available in softcover and hardcover with dust jacket for collectors and for use as a durable reference work.