Roman Army Units in the Western Provinces (2): 3rd Century AD (Men-at-Arms)

During the 3rd Century AD, the Roman Empire was headed by a revolving door of emperors and would-be emperors. The real backbone of state was the Roman Army, with its units stationed in each province providing some measure of defense and civil stability. In this Osprey Men-at-Arms Series book, author Raffaele D'Amato surveys the types of uniforms and equipment worn by the Roman Army in the Empire's Western Provinces.The book opens with a nicely concise introduction to the state of the Empire in the Third Century AD. The author then examines uniforms and equipment worn by the soldiers. Since the presentation is based on the interpretation of the limited surviving uniform and equipment items, it cannot be definitive. Nevertheless, the presentation, using a variety of photographs, drawings, and the expected well-done color plates, is impressive and interesting. Well recommended to students of the late Roman Empire.

Rome's Third Century was a time of overlapping and interconnected crises. Between the assassination of Alexander Severus and the accession of Diocletian, there were 50 Emperors, usurpers and pretenders to the throne. As far as military fashions and equipment, this period saw a complete transformation of the look of Roman soldiers.As with earlier volumes in this "Roman Army Units" mini-series, Raffaele D'Amato has handled his subject matter very differently than previous Osprey authors on the Roman military. This book largely focuses on archaeological finds and seems to be organized annalistically, by the Roman provinces (in this volume, the Western ones). Being focused thusly, the author is on materialistically solid ground, despite some illustrations that might be regarded as very exotic or bizarre looking to those who are more familiar with the look of Roman soldiers in the Late Republic or Early Empire.This book is a treasure in giving us a look at the Roman soldier during this pivotal era transitioning away from the look familiar on Trajan's column to a look that is in some ways a harbinger of a "barbarized" army that would not be out of place in the Dark Ages. I am looking forward to the companion volume on Eastern Armies during the 3rd Century!

I confess the art work is the most important reason for my purchase of this title. Raffaele Ruggeri is a superb exponent of his art. One again the research (and bibliography) by Raffaele D'Amato is an important tool for further study of the subject. Recommended highly.

Very confusing that you illustrate this book with the incorrect cover! Almost put me off buying the book.The book itself and content are excellent.

Typical osprey, good illustrations well written text.

A Useful and informative starting point to learn about the Roman troops in the Western Roman Empire with a good introduction to the regional differences.

Excellent