This study of the Roman army provides a crucial aid to understanding the Roman Empire in economic, social and political terms. The army was a dominant factor in the life of the Roman people even in times of peace. Troops were stationed in the provinces, perpetually ready for war.When Augustus established a permanent, professional army, this implied a role for the emperor as a military leader. War and Society in Imperial rome examines this personal association between army and emperor, and argues that the emperor's political survival ultimately depended on the army.Dealing with issues such as motives for waging war, the soldiers' social background, methods of fighting and military organization, Brian Campbell explores the wider significance of the army and warfare in Roman life and culture. This superbly researched survey is based on a wide range of evidence including writers, inscriptions, coins and buildings. It provides students with an invaluable guide to this important subject.