08-18-2003, 03:19 PM
"Gladiators were used in combat by Vitellius' commanders against Vespasian's troops during their march into Italy. See Tacitus, Historiae III.57."<br>
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Ok - so there is ONE instance. But as Jenny wrote, it was not at all a common practice to use gladiators on the battlefield - or flaming pigs or war dogs, etc. These UNITS are in there to "jazz things up" and while understandable it is a bit sad for those of us who think that historical accuracy is something worth achieving. <p></p><i></i>
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Ok - so there is ONE instance. But as Jenny wrote, it was not at all a common practice to use gladiators on the battlefield - or flaming pigs or war dogs, etc. These UNITS are in there to "jazz things up" and while understandable it is a bit sad for those of us who think that historical accuracy is something worth achieving. <p></p><i></i>