The Roman gladius was a short sword used by the ancient Roman military. Typically measuring around 20 to 30 inches in length, it featured a double-edged blade designed for thrusting and close combat. The gladius was a key weapon for Roman soldiers, known as legionaries, and played a significant role in their military success. The design of the gladius evolved over time, influenced by earlier swords from the Iberian Peninsula. Its effectiveness in battle contributed to the expansion of the Roman Empire, as soldiers relied on the gladius for both offense and defense during engagements.