Centurion facts for kids
A centurion (say "sen-TOO-ree-on") was a very important leader in the Roman army during ancient times. They were usually in charge of a group of soldiers called a century, which had about 80 legionaries.
In a large Roman army group called a Roman legion, several centuries were put together to form a cohort. The most experienced centurion led each cohort. The most important centurion in the entire legion was called the primus pilus. This person was the third-highest commander in the whole legion!
A centurion's special symbol of power was a vine staff. They used this staff to keep their soldiers disciplined, even Roman citizens. This was a big deal because Roman citizens usually had laws protecting them from physical punishment. Centurions also served in the Roman navy. After some big changes to the army around 107 BC by a general named Gaius Marius, centurions became full-time, professional officers. Much later, in the Middle Ages, the Byzantine army also had leaders similar to centurions, called kentarchs.
Qualities of a Centurion
To become a centurion, a soldier needed to have certain qualities. They had to be able to read written orders and be at least 30 years old. They also needed to have served in the military for several years already.
Centurions were also expected to be good at cheering up their soldiers and keeping them motivated.
The centurion in the army is chosen for his size, strength and skill with weapons. He must be good at throwing spears and using his sword and shield. He needs to be watchful, calm, active, and quick to follow orders rather than just talk. He must be strict in training his soldiers and making sure they look clean, well-dressed, and have shiny weapons.
—Vegetius. De Re Militari, II, 14
