John Peddie

Contemporary historians of Rome were, most famously Julius Caesar, who left us accounts of battles and campaigns, while others have left us military training manuals and textbooks. In this account of the Roman military machine the author draws on such persons and sources to reveal the true nature of events on the battlefield, but also goes further, to examine areas hinted at but almost exclusively overlooked by classical writers: the logistical and operational techniques which made the success of the Roman army possible.

Some of his first-hand experiences may inform Roman planning since we have a dearth of materials about the area. Where there are gaps the historian has to carefully but creatively fill in the blanks. I can appreciate that the author has addressed this lesser known area of Roman studies.

It is also helpful that he has a wider range of military examples to elaborate upon where the ancient sources are lacking. Illustrations and maps are helpful but of course could be supplemented by color photographsnfor a more attractive volume… (mehr)