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New Page entitled KS3 History


Question: Weapons, Tactics and other Military Hardware
New Page entitled The Testudo

The Testudo or Tortoise The tortoise formation was one of the more famous manoeuvres used by the Roman Army. When used, the legionaries became almost impossible to hit by arrow and spears when attacking or defending.


New Page entitled The Wedge

The wedge was used to 'crack open' enemy lines. Small groups of legionaries could form into a triangle and then drive their way into the enemy ranks. As more Roman soldiers reinforced the wedge from behind, the enemy line could be forced apart. As breaking the enemy's formation was very often the key to winning a battle, the wedge formation was vitally important battlefield tactic of the Roman army.


New Page entitled The Skirmish Formation


New Page entitled Cavalry Attack


New Page entitled The Orb

If a group a soldiers got caught out away from the main force during a battle they would form The Orb. With shields locked together and spears pointing out they could then try to protect themselves. However it was not the best position to be in during a battle!


New Page entitled Seige Tower

This was a massive tower built on wheels that could be dragged into place when attacking city walls. At the bottom of the tower would be a battering ram to knock down walls or gates.


New Page entitled Ballista

The ballista was used to fire a stone ball 30 to 40 yards, reaching a very great height. The impact of this stone ball would be devastating to men or walls


New Page entitled The Scorpio-Ballista

The Scorpio-Ballista Fired metal bolts at the enemy. Was used to support infantry attacks as well as defending the line.


New Page entitled The Ongar

The Ongar could fire a stone balls up to 150 feet. It could be used against advancing enemy or heavily defended fortifications.