Wikipedia: Roman Gladiator Types

The Roman world was at once decadent, advanced, complicated, and organized.

Take gladiators, for instance.

Gladiatorial bouts were the ultimate blood sport. A gladiator may well be giving up his life in full public view.

On the other hand, successful gladiators enjoyed a life of vast luxury and public adulation. Many of them were able to buy their freedom and become Roman noblemen.

Today's FamilyFirst pick is the Wikipedia entry on the various types of Roman gladiators.

For instance, there were the Praegenarii. These fighters were lightweight opening entertainment,. They battled with wooden swords and wore padding. They often fought to the tune of light-hearted music.

Then there were the Hoplomachi. They wore quilted, trouser-like leg wrappings, maybe made from linen, a loincloth, a belt, a pair of long shin-guards or greaves, an arm guard (manica) on the left arm, and a brimmed helmet. They fought with a sword, a spear, and a small shield.

There were many other types of gladiatori as well. Read all about them.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Roman_gladiator_types

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