What was the full name and common abbreviation of the Roman legion known as 'Macedonian Fourth Legion'?

The full name of the legion was Legio IV Macedonica, which translates to 'Macedonian Fourth Legion,' and it was also known as Legio Quarta Macedonica. Its common abbreviation, as seen on a brick stamp, was LEG IV MAC.

When was Legio IV Macedonica founded and by whom?

Legio IV Macedonica was founded in 48 BC by Gaius Julius Caesar, who was the dictator of Rome from 49 to 44 BC.

What was the origin of the legionaries who formed Legio IV Macedonica?

The legionaries who formed Legio IV Macedonica were recruited from Italia, the central region of the Roman Republic.

What were the official symbols associated with Legio IV Macedonica?

The official symbols of Legio IV Macedonica were a bull, which was a common symbol for all of Caesar's legions, and a capricorn.

When was Legio IV Macedonica ultimately disbanded and by which Roman Emperor?

Legio IV Macedonica was disbanded in AD 70 by Emperor Vespasian.

In which major conflict did Legio IV Macedonica first see action?

Legio IV Macedonica first saw action at the Battle of Dyrrhachium, which was part of Julius Caesar's civil war against Pompey.

Where was Legio IV Macedonica stationed after the civil war involving Julius Caesar?

After the civil war, Legio IV Macedonica was stationed in Macedonia, a Roman province.

What significant military campaign was Legio IV Macedonica intended for but ultimately did not participate in due to unforeseen circumstances?

Legio IV Macedonica was intended to serve in Julius Caesar's planned campaign against the Parthian Empire, but this expedition was canceled following Caesar's death.

How did Legio IV Macedonica demonstrate its allegiance during the civil war between Mark Antony and Augustus?

Despite being moved to Italy by Mark Antony, Legio IV Macedonica sided with Augustus during the civil war, fighting against Antony's forces.

Which battles did Legio IV Macedonica participate in during the conflict between Antony and Augustus, and what was the outcome for the legion?

Legio IV Macedonica fought at the Battle of Mutina against Antony, where it suffered heavy losses. It also fought at the Battle of Philippi in 42 BC, where it was nearly destroyed but managed to survive and be rebuilt.

What event likely led to the legion receiving its cognomen 'Macedonica'?

The legion likely received the name 'Macedonica' after its participation in the Battle of Philippi in 42 BC, where it was nearly destroyed but subsequently rebuilt.

Where was Legio IV Macedonica present in the winter of 41 BC?

In the winter of 41 BC, Legio IV Macedonica was present at the siege of Perugia, where Lucius Antonius, Mark Antony's brother, had sought refuge.

What other major battle in 31 BC saw the involvement of Legio IV Macedonica?

Legio IV Macedonica was also present at the Battle of Actium in 31 BC, a decisive naval battle in the final war of the Roman Republic.

Following Augustus's ascension to Emperor, where was Legio IV Macedonica relocated in 30 BC?

After Augustus became Emperor, Legio IV Macedonica was moved to Juliobriga in Hispania Tarraconensis in 30 BC.

What was the primary military objective of Legio IV Macedonica in Hispania Tarraconensis?

The primary military objective of Legio IV Macedonica in Hispania Tarraconensis was to fight in the Cantabrian Wars, a series of conflicts waged by the Roman Empire against the Cantabrian people.

What additional roles did the soldiers of Legio IV Macedonica undertake in Hispania after the Cantabrian Wars?

After the Cantabrian Wars, the soldiers of Legio IV Macedonica continued to serve as civil servants in Hispania.

Which Roman Emperor likely transferred Legio IV Macedonica to Germania Superior, and to which city?

Emperor Claudius likely transferred Legio IV Macedonica to Mainz in Germania Superior.

Which legion did Legio IV Macedonica replace upon its transfer to Mainz?

Upon its transfer to Mainz, Legio IV Macedonica replaced Legio XIV Gemina.

When is the transfer of Legio IV Macedonica to Germania Superior believed to have occurred?

The transfer of Legio IV Macedonica to Germania Superior is believed to have occurred likely in 41 AD, though some suggest it might have been in 39 AD during Emperor Caligula's war against the Germanic Chatti tribe.

How was the fortress in Mainz organized when Legio IV Macedonica shared it with Legio XXII Primigenia?

When Legio IV Macedonica shared the fortress in Mainz with the recently founded Legio XXII Primigenia, the younger unit occupied the less honorable left-hand side, while Legio IV Macedonica resided in the right-hand side.

During the Year of Four Emperors, which claimant to the imperial throne did Legio IV Macedonica support?

During the tumultuous period known as the Year of Four Emperors, Legio IV Macedonica was among the first legions to side with Vitellius.

What significant actions did Legio IV Macedonica undertake in support of Vitellius during the Year of Four Emperors?

Soldiers of Legio IV Macedonica participated in Vitellius's march to Italy, conquered the road through Switzerland, and fought at the Battles of Cremona and Bedriacum against the troops of Emperor Otho.

What was the ultimate fate of Vitellius's forces, including Legio IV Macedonica, during the Year of Four Emperors?

Vitellius's forces, including Legio IV Macedonica, were ultimately defeated by Vespasian, who later became emperor.

What role did Legio IV Macedonica play in Germania Inferior during the Batavian Revolt?

During the Batavian Revolt in Germania Inferior, Legio IV Macedonica was responsible for guarding Mainz against attacks by Germanic tribes such as the Chatti, Usipetes, and Mattiaci.

Despite its success in defending Mainz, why was Legio IV Macedonica regarded with suspicion by the new emperor, Vespasian?

Despite its successful defense of Mainz, Legio IV Macedonica was regarded with suspicion by the new emperor, Vespasian, likely due to its earlier support for Vitellius during the Year of Four Emperors.

What was the consequence of Emperor Vespasian's suspicion towards Legio IV Macedonica?

As a consequence of Vespasian's suspicion, Legio IV Macedonica was punished, reconstituted under a new name, Legio IV Flavia Felix, and given a new symbol, the lion.

What was the new name given to the reconstituted Legio IV Macedonica under Emperor Vespasian?

The reconstituted legion was given the new name Legio IV Flavia Felix.

What new symbol was adopted by Legio IV Flavia Felix, and what was its significance?

The new symbol adopted by Legio IV Flavia Felix was the lion, which was related to Hercules, Vespasian's favorite deity.

Where was the newly named Legio IV Flavia Felix first moved after its reconstitution?

The new Legio IV Flavia Felix was first moved to Burnum, a Roman military camp located in Dalmatia.

How long did Legio IV Flavia Felix remain stationed in Burnum, Dalmatia?

Legio IV Flavia Felix remained stationed in Burnum, Dalmatia, until 70 CE.

To which province was the legion transferred in 85 CE?

In 85 CE, the legion was transferred to Singidunum, located in the Roman province of Moesia.

Which general was responsible for transferring the legion to Syria at some point?

General Corbulo was responsible for transferring the legion to Syria.

Against which tribes did Legio IV Flavia Felix fight during the reign of Emperor Domitian?

During the reign of Emperor Domitian, Legio IV Flavia Felix fought against the Alemmani and the Dacians.

In which major wars did Legio IV Flavia Felix participate under Emperor Trajan?

Legio IV Flavia Felix later fought in Trajan's Dacian Wars.

How long did Legio IV Flavia Felix remain in Singidunum, Moesia, before disappearing from historical records?

Legio IV Flavia Felix remained in Singidunum for the next 200 years before it disappears from history.

What information is provided by the epigraphic inscription found in Logrono, Spain, regarding Legio IV Macedonica?

An epigraphic inscription found in Logrono, Spain, mentions 'Caius Valerius Cai filius Voltinia Donatus,' identifying him as a soldier of Legio IIII Macedonica, aged 39.

Who was Lucius Blattius, and what was his rank and time frame of service with the legion?

Lucius Blattius was a Centurio (centurion) who served with the legion during the Flavian Dynasty.

Who was Lucius Martius Macer, and what was his rank in relation to the legion?

Lucius Martius Macer was a Legatus (legate) associated with the legion, though his specific time frame of service is unknown.

What type of military unit was Legio IV Macedonica?

Legio IV Macedonica was a Roman legion, which was a large, organized unit of the Imperial Roman army, typically comprising several thousand soldiers.

In which historical periods was Legio IV Macedonica active?

Legio IV Macedonica was active from 48 BCE, during the closing years of the Roman Republic, until the 4th century CE, within the Roman Empire.

What artifact provides evidence of Legio IV Macedonica's presence in Rheinzabern?

A brick stamp bearing the inscription 'LEG IV MAC' found in Rheinzabern provides evidence of Legio IV Macedonica's presence there, indicating their involvement in construction or manufacturing activities.

What was the primary purpose of Roman legions like Legio IV Macedonica?

Roman legions, such as Legio IV Macedonica, served as the backbone of the Roman military, responsible for conquest, defense, and maintaining order across the Roman Republic and later the Roman Empire, acting as highly disciplined and effective fighting forces.

How did the political landscape of Rome influence the early history of Legio IV Macedonica?

The political landscape of Rome, marked by civil wars between powerful figures like Julius Caesar and Pompey, and later Mark Antony and Augustus, directly influenced the early history of Legio IV Macedonica, as it was founded for these conflicts and frequently shifted allegiances or suffered losses in them.

What does the term 'dictator' signify in the context of Gaius Julius Caesar's role in 49-44 BC?

In the context of Gaius Julius Caesar's role from 49-44 BC, a 'dictator' was a magistrate of the Roman Republic granted extraordinary power to handle specific crises, though Caesar's tenure became effectively permanent, signifying a temporary but absolute authority.

What was the significance of the Battle of Philippi for Legio IV Macedonica?

The Battle of Philippi was significant for Legio IV Macedonica because it was nearly destroyed during the engagement, yet it survived to be rebuilt, an event that likely contributed to its distinctive name, 'Macedonica,' reflecting its service in that region.

How did the Cantabrian Wars contribute to the long-term deployment of Legio IV Macedonica in Hispania?

The Cantabrian Wars led to the deployment of Legio IV Macedonica in Hispania Tarraconensis, and after the fighting concluded, its soldiers continued to serve in civil administration roles, indicating a prolonged presence and integration into the region's infrastructure.

What was the strategic importance of Mainz as a station for Roman legions like Legio IV Macedonica?

Mainz, located in Germania Superior, was a strategically important fortress city on the Roman frontier, serving as a key base for legions like Legio IV Macedonica to defend against Germanic tribes and maintain Roman control in the region, acting as a bulwark against external threats.

What was the 'Year of Four Emperors,' and how did Legio IV Macedonica's involvement reflect the instability of the period?

The 'Year of Four Emperors' was a period of civil war and political instability in the Roman Empire following Nero's death, during which four different emperors claimed the throne. Legio IV Macedonica's decision to side with Vitellius and its subsequent defeat by Vespasian reflects the widespread military and political upheaval of this time, where legions often chose sides in imperial succession disputes.

Why was the change of the legion's name to Legio IV Flavia Felix and its symbol to a lion a form of punishment and rebranding by Vespasian?

The change of the legion's name to Legio IV Flavia Felix and its symbol to a lion was a form of punishment and rebranding by Vespasian because it stripped the legion of its old identity, which was associated with its support for Vitellius, and re-established it under a new name and symbol linked to Vespasian's favored deity, Hercules, thereby asserting the new emperor's authority and loyalty.

What was the final known location and fate of Legio IV Flavia Felix (formerly Legio IV Macedonica)?

The final known location of Legio IV Flavia Felix was Singidunum in Moesia, where it remained for approximately 200 years after its transfer in 85 CE, eventually disappearing from historical records, suggesting its dissolution or integration into other units.

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Legio IV Macedonica: An Overview

Foundation and Identity

The Legio IV Macedonica, or "Macedonian Fourth Legion," was a distinguished legion of the Imperial Roman army. It was founded in 48 BCE by Gaius Julius Caesar, the renowned dictator of Rome, drawing its initial ranks from Italian legionaries.^[1] This legion's symbols, a bull and a capricorn, were emblematic of Caesar's legions, reflecting both strength and astrological significance.^[1]

Enduring Service

The legion's active service spanned a significant period, from its inception in 48 BCE through the tumultuous closing years of the Roman Republic and well into the Roman Empire, until its eventual disbandment in AD 70 by Emperor Vespasian.^[1] Its history is a testament to the dynamic and often brutal nature of Roman military engagement across various theaters of war.

The Name's Origin

The cognomen "Macedonica" likely emerged following the legion's near destruction and subsequent rebuilding after the Battle of Philippi in 42 BC. This designation would have served as a lasting reminder of its service and resilience in the province of Macedonia, where it was stationed prior to the civil war between Antony and Augustus.^[5]

Early Campaigns and Civil Strife

Caesar's Civil War

Formed amidst the escalating conflict between Julius Caesar and Pompey, Legio IV Macedonica saw its inaugural combat at the Battle of Dyrrhachium in 48 BCE.^[2] Following Caesar's victory, the legion was stationed in Macedonia, poised for a planned campaign against the Parthian Empire. However, this ambitious expedition was aborted after Caesar's assassination, redirecting the legion's fate towards further internal Roman conflicts.

Antony and Augustus

Despite being moved to Italy by Mark Antony, Legio IV Macedonica decisively sided with Octavian (later Augustus) during the subsequent civil war. They participated in the Battle of Mutina, where they engaged Antony's forces and sustained considerable losses.^[2]^[3] Their loyalty to Octavian was further demonstrated at the pivotal Battle of Philippi in 42 BC, a conflict that nearly annihilated the legion before its eventual reconstitution.^[5]

Post-Civil War Engagements

After Philippi, the legion returned to Italy with Augustus. They were present at the siege of Perugia in the winter of 41 BC, a critical engagement where Lucius Antonius, Mark Antony's brother, had sought refuge.^[3] Their service continued through the final stages of the civil wars, culminating in their presence at the decisive Battle of Actium in 31 BC, which solidified Augustus's supremacy.^[3]

Imperial Service and Frontier Duties

Campaigns in Hispania

With Augustus firmly established as Emperor, Legio IV Macedonica was redeployed in 30 BC to Juliobriga in Hispania Tarraconensis. Here, they played a crucial role in the arduous Cantabrian Wars, a series of campaigns to subdue the fiercely independent Cantabrian tribes.^[5] Following the cessation of hostilities, many legionaries transitioned to civil service roles within Hispania, contributing to the Romanization of the province.^[3]

Deployment to Germania

The legion's strategic importance led to its transfer to Mainz in Germania Superior, likely around 41 AD under Emperor Claudius, to replace Legio XIV Gemina.^[3]^[6] Some scholars suggest an earlier transfer in 39 AD during Emperor Caligula's campaign against the Germanic Chatti. In Mainz, Legio IV Macedonica shared its fortress with the newly formed Legio XXII Primigenia, with the Fourth Legion occupying the more prestigious right-hand side of the encampment.^[3]

Years of Turmoil and Reconstitution

The Year of Four Emperors

During the chaotic "Year of Four Emperors" (AD 69), Legio IV Macedonica was among the first legions to declare allegiance to Vitellius. Its soldiers marched with Vitellius to Italy, engaging in significant battles at Cremona and Bedriacum against the forces of Emperor Otho.^[3] Their valor in these conflicts earned several soldiers commendations. However, their loyalty to Vitellius ultimately led to their defeat by Vespasian, the eventual victor of the civil war.^[5]

Batavian Revolt and Rebirth

While elements of the legion were engaged in Italy, the main body of Legio IV Macedonica remained in Germania Inferior, guarding Mainz against the Batavian revolt and attacks from Germanic tribes such as the Chatti, Usipetes, and Mattiaci.^[3] Despite their successful defense, the legion fell under suspicion by the new emperor Vespasian due to their earlier support for Vitellius. As a consequence, Legio IV Macedonica was disbanded and subsequently reconstituted under a new name, Legio IV Flavia Felix, and assigned a new symbol: the lion, a creature associated with Vespasian's favored deity, Hercules.^[3]^[7]^[8]^[5]

Enduring Legacy and Attested Members

Later Deployments

The reconstituted Legio IV Flavia Felix was initially moved to Burnum, a Roman military camp in Dalmatia, where it remained until 70 CE. Subsequently, in 85 CE, the legion was transferred to Singidunum in Moesia, a strategically vital region. Records also indicate a deployment to Syria under the command of General Corbulo.^[9]^[10] During the reign of Domitian, the legion actively participated in campaigns against the Alemmani and Dacians, later fighting in Trajan's Dacian Wars. Legio IV Flavia Felix maintained its presence in Singidunum for approximately two centuries before its eventual disappearance from historical records.^[5]

Epigraphic Inscriptions

Archaeological discoveries provide tangible evidence of the legion's presence and the lives of its soldiers. An inscription found in Logroño, Spain, commemorates Caius Valerius Cai filius Voltinia (tribu) Donatus, a soldier of Legio IIII Macedonica, who served for 39 years. Such epigraphic records offer invaluable insights into the composition and individual experiences within the Roman military machine.

Attested Members

While the full roster of Legio IV Macedonica remains largely unknown, historical records and inscriptions have preserved the names of a few individuals who served within its ranks, offering a glimpse into the legion's command structure and personnel.

Name	Rank	Time Frame
Lucius Blattius	Centurio	Flavian Dynasty^[11]
Lucius Martius Macer	Legatus	Unknown^[12]

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Echoes of Empire

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Legio IV Macedonica: An Overview 🛡️

🏛️ Foundation and Identity

⏳ Enduring Service

📜 The Name's Origin

Early Campaigns and Civil Strife ⚔️

🌊 Caesar's Civil War

🤝 Antony and Augustus

🔥 Post-Civil War Engagements

Imperial Service and Frontier Duties 🗺️

⛰️ Campaigns in Hispania

🌲 Deployment to Germania

Years of Turmoil and Reconstitution 🌪️

👑 The Year of Four Emperors

🦁 Batavian Revolt and Rebirth

Enduring Legacy and Attested Members 🌟

🌍 Later Deployments

✍️ Epigraphic Inscriptions

👤 Attested Members

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Legio IV Macedonica: An Overview

Foundation and Identity

Enduring Service

The Name's Origin

Early Campaigns and Civil Strife

Caesar's Civil War

Antony and Augustus

Post-Civil War Engagements

Imperial Service and Frontier Duties

Campaigns in Hispania

Deployment to Germania

Years of Turmoil and Reconstitution

The Year of Four Emperors

Batavian Revolt and Rebirth

Enduring Legacy and Attested Members

Later Deployments

Epigraphic Inscriptions

Attested Members

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice