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PMRR-04Y - Principes
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For set-piece battles, the heavy infantry were usually drawn up in three lines.
However, the vast majority of the heavy infantry were stationed in the front two lines, the HASTATI
and PRINCIPES. Contained in these two lines were the younger recruits who were expected to do all the
fighting. The rear line (TRIARII), was a reserve consisting of older men who formed a line of last resort to
provide cover for the front lines if they were put to flight (and also to prevent unauthorised retreat by the
front ranks).
The Principes (singular princeps) were originally men in the prime of their lives , who were also fairly
wealthy, and could therefore afford decent equipment. These were the heavier infantry of the legion, and
their usual position was the second battle line.
By the time of the Punic wars infantry were sorted into classes according to age and experience rather
than wealth. The Principes then became the older veterans but their equipment and role remained the
same.
Brand: John Jenkins
