Question

What fighting skills did the various auxiliary troops have? What type of auxiliary troop was the most important? List three ways in which this auxiliary troop was used.

Answer 1

The most important auxiliary troops were perhaps the cavalry, serving as scouts, executing flanking maneuvers, and pursuing fleeing enemies, which highlighted their versatility and crucial role in the Roman military framework.

Step-by-step explanation:

Auxiliary troops in the Roman army, such as the Gauls, brought their unique fighting skills and tactics which they practiced with their native weapons. These forces were integral in supporting the Roman legions, not just through direct combat, but in various specialized roles. Among the auxiliary troops, the cavalry, known as alae, played a pivotal role. They were often crucial in battlefield scenarios due to their mobility and speed.

The most important type of auxiliary troop could arguably be the cavalry. Their importance is highlighted through their diverse uses on the battlefield:

1. The cavalry served as scouts, providing valuable reconnaissance on enemy movements and positions.
2. They were key in flanking maneuvers during battles, utilizing their speed to attack the enemy from the sides.
3. The cavalry often pursued fleeing enemies, preventing regrouping and ensuring a thorough defeat.