Roman Army Command Structure

Introduction

• Roman military was a well-structured organization from generals to legionaries.
• Higher command was dominated by social and political elite.
• Roman aristocrats encouraged to join military early.
• Focus on higher echelons of command structure.
• Comparison with modern US Army ranks.

Roman Aristocracy and Military

• Two main classes:
  • Senatorial Class (wealthy enough to be senators).
  • Equestrians (wealthy but below senators, historically linked to cavalry ownership).
• "Militia Equestris" career path for equestrians.

Equestrian Military Career

1. Praefectus Auxilia (Auxiliary Prefect)

• First position for equestrians.
• Commanded 500 non-Roman soldiers.
• Limited availability (83 positions annually).
• Compared to US Army Captain.

2. Tribunus Angusticlavius (Narrow-Striped Tribune)

• Staff-officer within the legion.
• Focus on administrative tasks (logistics, supplies).
• 47 positions open annually.
• Comparable to modern Captain or Major.

3. Praefectus Alae (Auxiliary Cavalry Prefect)

• Commands 500-strong cavalry unit.
• More prestigious but still equestrian.
• 24 vacancies annually.
• Modern equivalent: Major.

Administrative Progression

• After military service, transition to administrative roles such as procurator.
• Prefecture positions highly competitive and appointed by Emperor.

Camp Prefect (Praefectus Castrorum)

• Held by experienced plebeian soldiers.
• Third-in-command of a legion.
• Comparable to Command Sergeant Major.

Senatorial Military Career

1. Tribunus Laticlavius (Broad-Striped Tribune)

• First step in "cursus honorum".
• Second-in-command of a legion.
• Very competitive, 9 positions annually.
• Modern equivalent: Lieutenant Colonel.

2. Legatus (Legate)

• Main legion commander.
• Experienced individuals, often former consuls/praetors.
• Modern equivalent: Full Colonel.

High-Level Command

• Legatus Augusti Pro Praetore: Commands provincial army.
• Modern equivalent: General.
• Senatorial provinces governed by Legatus Pro Praetore.

Notable Careers

Equestrian Example: Marcus Petronius Honoratus

• Progressed through Auxiliary Prefect, Tribune, Cavalry Prefect.
• Various procurator roles leading to Emperor's finance minister.

Senatorial Example: Popilius Carus Pedo

• Extensive career through military and administrative roles.
• Governed Germania Superior and served as consul.

Conclusion

• Roman military structure emphasized multi-disciplinary skill set for leaders.
• Well-rounded aristocrats prioritized for ruling.
• Higher senatorial classes had even more competitive military roles.
• Collaboration with "Rome Retold" Podcast and sponsorship note for Warhammer 40,000: Tacticus.