The term "hastati" refers to the young, front-line soldiers of the ancient Roman army during the Republic period. They were typically armed with a spear called a pilum and a short sword known as a gladius. Hastati formed the first line of battle, providing a crucial role in the Roman military formation known as the manipular system. Hastati were usually recruited from the lower classes of Roman society and were expected to be agile and quick in combat. As they gained experience, they could advance to the next ranks, such as principes and triarii, which represented more seasoned soldiers in the Roman legions.