Amazon.com Product Description (ISBN 0415170397, Paperback)

The cavalry was a vital part of the army of Rome and it played a significant role in the expansion and success of the Roman Empire. The authors describe the origins of the mounted units of the Roman army and trace their development from temporary allied troops to the regular alae and cohorts.

The book covers the subject from the perspective of both the men and the horses. How were the horses selected and disposed of; how were they trained, stabled and fed? How were the men recruited, organized and equipped; and what were the conditions of service for a Roman cavalryman? The cavalry had to be employed in peacetime and this is discussed as well as its role in war. This book provides a comprehensive account of the Roman cavalry and the current state of knowledge concerning it. The wide selection of illustrations includes original drawings by Karen R. Dixon.