Roman Military Class System

The Roman military was intricately tied to wealth and social status, with soldiers categorized into distinct classes based on their financial means. From the skirmishing welites to the elite terrarii, each group played a specific role in battle, reflecting a hierarchy that emphasized both experience and resources. The equestrian class, able to afford horses, served as cavalry, while the capiti cenci, lacking property, were excluded from military service altogether. This system underscored the significant impact of wealth on one's ability to serve and fight in ancient Rome.