Weapons in Ancient Rome
The gladius (sword) and the pilum (javelin) were often used by Roman soldiers in battle. The blade of the gladius would be constructed from iron, about 50cm in length, and the handle hardwood. Similarly, the pilum was made of an iron 'shank' joined to a wooden staff. A Roman legionary would be armed with a shield, javelins, a dagger and a gladius sword, all of which could be fatal if wielded with enough force
Bibliography:
http://www.weapons-universe.com/Swords/Ancient_Roman_Weapons.shtml
http://www.vincelewis.net/gladius.html
http://www.indepthinfo.com/swords/gladius-roman-short-sword.php
Famous Army: Legio XIII Gemina
Legio XIII Gemina (thirteenth twin legion) was a sizeable Roman army of 3,500 men, led by prominent figures such as Julies Caeser. Without their assistance, Caeser would have been unable to cross the Rubicon in 49 BC, beginning a civil war, or claim victory in the Gallic wars of 58-50 BC. The Legio XIII Gemina helped Julius Caeser in particular shape Roman history as we know it today.
Bibliography:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/13th_Legion
http://www.livius.org/le-lh/legio/xiii_gemina.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/13th_Legion
