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FAMOUS ROMANS
MARIUS (CAIUS MARIUS)
157-86 BC
Military commander, politician (elected consul six times), reformer of the Roman military. He was successful in war, earning victories over the Cimbri. Initially a protégé of the Metelli, he later became a new man (Novo homus), the first in his family to become consul. He reorganized the Roman army; eliminating the property requirement to join, thereby alleviating a manpower shortage. Next, the army was professionalized and trained year-round even during times of peace. Soldier were given a pension and land upon retirement. The Pre-Marian division of the legion (Velites, Hastati, Principes and Triari) was replaced by the standard legionary based on the Principes. There were also technical innovations such as the pilum (a throwing spear). Allied legions were given Roman citizenship and integrated directly into the Roman legion.
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List of Famous Romans
Mariussmicha2016-04-01T14:15:34+00:00
