The Roman Empire was created and controlled by its soldiers. At the core of the army were its legions ... a 'pilum' (javelin), a helmet, armor, shield and a pack with supplies.

The Roman army was the largest fighting force in the ancient world ... Image caption, Re-enactors with Roman shields. Legionaries signed up for at least 25 years' service. But if they survived ...

The Roman army was the largest fighting force in the ancient world ... Image caption, Re-enactors with Roman shields. Legionaries signed up for at least 25 years' service. But if they survived ...