The first known type of gladiator, the Samnite, dating from the late fourth century B. C., proved to be popular for centuries with the crowds that attended Rome's amphitheater games. If this had remained the only kind of arena fighter, the munera would have been much less varied and colorful. As it was, though, several different types or categories of gladiators developed during the late Republic and early Empire. Each type had its own distinctive armor (or lack thereof), weapons, and fighting style, and each represented a typical warrior of a foreign people, usually one that had fought and been defeated by Rome.

The munera, therefore, became more than just entertainment. These games were also a form of propaganda, as well as a venue for Romans to express their nationalism and pride in their forefathers' accomplishments...