What Name Was Given To The Practise Of Killing Every Tenth Man In A Mutinous Roman Cohort?

When it came to maintaining discipline within the ranks of the Roman army, the Romans had a unique and brutal method known as decimation. Derived from the Latin word "decimatio," which means "removal of a tenth," decimation involved killing every tenth man in a mutinous cohort.

Decimation was a severe punishment reserved for cases of extreme insubordination or mutiny. It was often employed as a last resort to restore order and discipline within the cohort. The act was as much a deterrent as it was a punishment, serving as a stark warning to others who dared to challenge the authority of their superiors.

The process of decimation was carried out in a grim and methodical manner. First, the entire cohort was divided into groups of ten. Lots were then drawn, and one man out of every ten was chosen to be executed. This selection process was often carried out by the soldiers themselves, adding an additional layer of psychological impact as they were forced to participate in the punishment of their comrades.

The chosen men would then be lined up and beaten to death by their fellow soldiers, often using clubs or other blunt objects. The rationale behind this brutal method was to ensure that everyone in the cohort was involved in the punishment, further reinforcing the message that disobedience would not be tolerated.

The surviving soldiers were not spared from punishment either. They would be subjected to various forms of additional discipline, such as reduced rations, increased labor, or being forced to live in deplorable conditions. This further emphasized the consequences of their actions and served as a constant reminder of the price they paid for their mutiny.

Decimation was a practice that struck fear into the hearts of Roman soldiers. Its purpose was not only to punish the guilty but also to instill obedience and loyalty within the ranks. The threat of decimation loomed over every cohort, serving as a chilling reminder of the consequences of rebellion. It was an extreme measure that reflected the uncompromising discipline and unwavering authority of the Roman military.

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