The strength of the mighty Ancient Roman military lay in its
professionalism. The Ancient Roman military was the first paid
professional military in the ancient world. Even people who
belonged to the poorest classes in Ancient Rome had the opportunity
to enlist in the military for compensation. All compensation was not
equal among the ranks. Like today, compensation could be decided
depending upon years employed, goals reached, and titles held.
Military pay was also determined by success during battle, military
importance, and service rendered. Not all pay was the same and
perks were different for each position. For example, a newly
enlisted soldier might become a war hero and move up the ranks
quickly because he earned the respect of the Roman military and
receives monetary compensation and a high title for his skilled
fighting and bravery. On the other hand, soldiers who may have
served much longer could receive less then this war hero because
they have not accomplished as much or provide adequate skills that
require higher pay. Because there were several positions on all
levels of the military, there was a place for everyone in the
Ancient Roman military from generals to servants.
Soldiers in the Ancient Roman army signed contracts as Rome grew and
evolved into an empire, the Ancient Roman government and military
leaders knew that supporting and professionalizing their military
was the key to success. Roman leaders made sure veterans were given
land and ensured Romans could make a career out of the army. After
a career of 25 years, Ancient Roman soldiers were allowed to retire
with a pension.
Depending on the Emperor and time period, legionary soldiers would
receive anywhere from 225 to 500 denarii for services. However,
the state would deduct food and clothing costs from this salary in
the form of taxes. Soldiers were allowed to collect valuables and
sell slaves from people they had conquered during battle which
brought in a generous profit.
Once soldiers of the legion completed their service in the Ancient
Roman Military, they would receive 3,000-5,000 denarii or an area of
high-quality farmland. Giving high-quality farmland to retired
soldiers helped to establish control over frontier provinces and
unruly territories. Having trained Ancient Roman military minds
overseeing land not only created control, but also gave military
leaders a piece of mind that some of their own were looking out
after these areas which meant less chance of outside attack or
rebellion from disorderly citizens.