The gladius is a type of sword that was commonly used by the ancient Roman military. It typically features a short, double-edged blade, making it effective for close combat. The design of the gladius allowed Roman soldiers, known as legionaries, to fight efficiently in tight formations, contributing to the success of the Roman Empire. The gladius evolved over time, with variations such as the gladius hispaniensis, which was influenced by earlier Iberian swords. This weapon became a symbol of Roman power and discipline, and its effectiveness in battle played a significant role in the expansion of Roman territories across Europe and beyond.