Roman soldiers, known as legionaries, were the backbone of the ancient Roman Empire's military. They were highly trained and disciplined, serving in various roles such as infantry, cavalry, and archers. Legionaries typically wore armor made of metal and leather, carried a gladius (short sword), and used a scutum (large shield) for protection in battle. The Roman army was organized into units called legions, each consisting of about 5,000 soldiers. Soldiers were required to serve for a minimum of 25 years, and their training included physical fitness, combat skills, and tactics. This rigorous preparation helped the Roman army become one of the most effective military forces in history.