The Roman Army: Legions and Their Role

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
7 questions
~14 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

This worksheet explores different interpretations of the Roman legions through contrasting historian views. Students will analyze, compare, and evaluate these perspectives to deepen their understanding of the Roman military system.

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The Roman Army: Legions and Their Role

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Contrasting Historians on the Roman Legions

Historian A: Adrian Goldsworthy – Military Efficiency Perspective

"Adrian Goldsworthy emphasizes the remarkable discipline, organization, and tactical innovation of the Roman legions. He argues that their strict training, adaptability, and effective use of technology allowed Rome to maintain control over a vast empire for centuries. According to him, the legions were the backbone of Roman power, demonstrating superior military efficiency that distinguished them from their enemies. Goldsworthy also highlights the legions' ability to adapt to different terrains and enemies, which contributed to their success in expanding and defending the empire."

Historian B: Mary Beard – Social and Cultural Perspective

"Mary Beard views the Roman legions as more than just military units; she considers their social and cultural significance within Roman society. She argues that the legions were a means of social mobility for many Roman men, fostering a sense of identity and loyalty to Rome. Beard also emphasizes the impact of the legions on Roman culture, including their role in spreading Roman values and influence across provinces. She suggests that understanding the legions requires recognizing their broader social role beyond military functions."

1.
Summarize each historian's view on the Roman legions.
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the two historians' perspectives and explain why they differ.
[6 marks]
3.
Which historian's interpretation do you find more convincing and why? Support your answer.
[6 marks]
4.
Outline how the Roman legions contributed to the expansion of the Roman Empire.
[3 marks]
5.
Explain why different historians might focus on different aspects of the Roman legions.
[3 marks]
6.
Describe one strength and one limitation of Goldsworthy's view.
[3 marks]
7.
Analyse how the social role of the legions, as described by Beard, might have influenced Roman society.
[6 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet