Roman horseman mask

But, historical philosophy aside, I love collecting and learning about Roman Republic silver coins, as they revolve around critical junctures in Roman history that MADE Rome great! Think of the low point in time 218-216BC when Hannibal's Army literally slaughtered all of Rome's Legions in 3 critical battles! Over 120,000 Roman men DIED in that short of period in time. Virtually a whole generation perished when Rome was not a large of city as they were in the Imperial period. The Sentatus and Popularii PERSEVERED, and moved on to ultimately DEFEAT Hannibal. That was truly their Finest Hour.

 

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I can easily appreciate all viewpoints expressed in this thread....but....

I believe Alegandron (and Bing ) has succinctly stated the core issues in my mind---Hannibal and Alexander became unparalleled leaders ---instilling a devotion in their troops that seems almost incomprehensible...as did Caesar; But Hannibal's army was predominantly comprised of mercenaries and keeping such an army together, let alone successful in battle, is one mark of military genius. All seemed 'lucky' and perhaps a bit bold or foolhardy, but all seemed to immediately assess all immediate tactical changes as the need arose and made much of their own luck.

In modern times, Patton was regarded as one of the greatest generals in the US Army---bold, perhaps foolhardy and vainglorious (Are any 'successful' Generals that are not?) but seized the initiative by constantly advancing and routing the enemy before they could effectively regroup until that old enemy of all armies arose---logistics.

Obviously, training, equipment and tactics and strategy are all key components of any military success---luck is always part of it all-----It's often said, once the battle begins all plans are now virtually useless----Commanders, at this point, now hold the predominant key to success by reacting to the exigencies of battle as they develop.

 

I won't jump into the analytical discussion of generalship but will recommend a book titled IN THE NAME OF ROME by Adrain Goldsworthy for anyone interested in a well written chronological history of Rome's leading generals.

 

Thank you Hispanicus! I just ordered Goldworthy's "The Complete Roman Army" as well as "In the Name of Rome". I saw that the author is at the University of Cardiff. Several years ago, I was an expatriate just outside the Cardiff area for 3 years. I also thoroughly enjoyed a visit to the Roman Legionary Fortress site of Isca Augusta (or Silurum) in present day Caerleon, Wales. Wonderful and powerful experience.

 

Every good general will examine methodically and in detail the strengths and weaknesses of the enemy. These generals will not play to the strengths, but instead exploit the weaknesses.

Even with the technological advances over the cenutries, Generals like Caesar are still studied for their genius on the battlefield.

 

Alegandron,
Glad to have been of use. I also have "the Complete Roman Army", just couldn't remember the title when I posted earlier today. Those two books complement each other very well.