Eagle

Claudius makes frequent reference to a military ensign known as an eagle. Each regiment carried an eagle, a staff topped by a globe surmounted by an eagle with wings flared. The eagle was typically made of bronze or silver and represented the regiment's esprit de corps and military infallibility. When eagles were captured in battle, Rome felt the disgrace. When eagles were recovered from vanquished enemies, it was cause for great celebration.

The Roman Republic

The original government of the vast Roman civilization was a republic. From 500 BC until 44 BC, Rome was ruled by a republican government composed primarily of a senate. The end of the Roman Republic came when the senate appointed Julius Caesar perpetual dictator and, later, when the senate upheld Augustus as Caesar in 27 BC. Although modern historians view the change from republic to empire as something decisive, it was not so obvious to...