The legions of the late Republic were, structurally, almost entirely heavy infantry. The legion's main sub-unit was called a cohort and consisted of approximately 480 infantrymen. The cohort was therefore a much larger unit than the earlier maniple sub-unit, and was divided into six centuries of 80 men each. Each century was separated further into 10 "tent groups" of 8 men each. The cavalry troops were used as scouts and dispatch riders rather than battlefield cavalry. Legions also contained a dedicated group of artillery crew of perhaps 60 men. Each legion was normally partnered with an approximately equal number of allied (non-Roman) troops.
The legions of the late Republic were , structurally , almost entirely heavy infantry . The legion 's main sub - unit was called a cohort and consisted of approximately 480 infantrymen . The cohort was therefore a much larger unit than the earlier maniple sub - unit , and was divided into six centuries of 80 men each . Each century was separated further into 10 " tent groups " of 8 men each . The cavalry troops were used as scouts and dispatch riders rather than battlefield cavalry . Legions also contained a dedicated group of artillery crew of perhaps 60 men . Each legion was normally partnered with an approximately equal number of allied ( non - Roman ) troops .
Around how many units could be expected to be contained within a cohort?
Around how many units could be expected to be contained within a cohort ?
480 infantrymen
480 infantrymen