When we picture the Roman army, we usually imagine Roman citizens in legionary armor.
But much of Rome's military strength also came from auxiliary soldiers who were recruited from across the empire.
These non-citizens served alongside the legions, often far from their homes. After the normal twenty-five years of service, many auxiliaries could earn Roman citizenship, transforming the legal status of themselves and their families.
Military diplomas preserved in museums provide direct evidence of this system.
