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Thread: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

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    Default Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

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    The Team of

    Roma Surrectum 2.0

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    The Cimbri

















    The Cimbri people were an enigma. Virtually unknown until they appeared around 120 BC during a mass migration in search of a new homeland. They had joined with the Teutones and other tribes to swell their ranks to well over 600,000. They came in contact with the Romans, due to a dispute with Rome’s ally the Taurisci in Noricum in 113 BC. Respectfully they acknowledged the sovereignty of Rome and made a request of consul Gnaeus Papirius Carbo for land on which to settle. They offered themselves as auxiliaries to Rome should the need arise. Carbo informed them that there was no land in Noricum, but that guides would direct them to a rich and bountiful area a short march away. But Carbo had already planned an ambush to rid the world of these “barbarians”; an act that would cause Rome more pain than Carthage ever inflicted...and put Rome once again under the threat of occupation.








    “The departed heroes entered a place called Walhalla, ‘The Hall of the Dead’. Here they passed the day in battle or in the chase. At night they dined to the sounds of celestial horns; those who had fallen in the combat of that day rising fresh and unwounded to join in the revelry, and quaff metheglin from the skulls of the slain.”

    From A History of All Nations, Samuel Griswold Goodrich.






    The Cimbri are known to have resided in the area of present day County of Himmerland, Denmark, on the northern part of the Jutland peninsula. Detailed historical authors and references still argue as to whether they were Germans or Celts. For this presentation they are to be referred to as Germania or Germans. They were of gigantic stature, (there are references to many of their warriors being seven feet in height), of fair complexion, fierce blue eyes and long yellow hair.



    Cimbri and Teutones pass into Gaul


    The Cimbri are also known or reported to have wandered over the centuries. Tales of these fierce warriors come from Spain, France, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Iran, Russia and Poland. Their name means ‘warlike’ and also ‘robber’. The (Germans) were one nation never to have been completely subdued by Rome. They stopped Roman expansion in Europe by annihilating three of Rome's legions, (Varus -Teutoburger Wald), and hundreds of years later, destroyed the once mighty 'Empire' that was Rome.




    Teutones wandering in Gaul




    The Cimbri worshipped many gods including the moon and the sun, as well as:


    Thuisco - The founder of this race.
    Sunna - The Germanic sun goddess. (Sunday)
    Mani - The Germanic moon god. (Monday)
    Tyr - The god of single combat. (Tuesday means Tyr's day.)

    Wotan / Oden - The head of all god's. He is associated with wisdom, war, battle and death. Also magic, poetry, prophecy, victory, and the hunt. A Germanic version of Zeus (Wednesday)

    Tor – God of thunder. The Germanic version of Mars. (Thursday)
    Freja – The god of love and fertility. Wife of Oden. (Friday)
    Frej- Brother of Freja and a god of love as well. (Friday)
    Hertha - The goddess who dwells in a sacred grove by the lake.



    Irminsul

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

    A Germanic god Irmin, inferred from the name Irminsul and the tribal name Irminones, is sometimes presumed to have been the national god or demi-god of the Saxons. It has been suggested that Irmin was more probably an aspect, avatar or epithet of some other deity - most likely Wotan (Oden) - or even is a Neopagan invention; it is not attested as an independent deity in pre-Modern sources on Germanic paganism. Irmin might also have been an epithet of the god Ziu (Tyr) in early Germanic times, only later transferred to Oden, as Oden replaced Tyr as the chief Germanic deity only at the onset of the Migration Period. This was the favored view of early 20th century Nordicist writers, but it is not generally considered likely in modern times.
    The Norse form of Irmin is Jörmunr, which just like Yggr was one of the names of Odin. Yggdrasil ("Yggr's horse") was the yew or ash tree from which Oden sacrificed himself, and which connected heaven and earth. Jakob Grimm connects the name Irmin with Old Norse terms like iörmungrund ("great ground", i.e. the Earth) or iörmungandr "great snake", i.e. the Midgard serpent.
    It is thus often conjectured that the Irminsul was a World tree, the equivalent of Yggdrasil among the Saxon tribes of Germany. But the few primary sources that attest to it are not clear about whether it was a "world-pillar" or simply the pedestal for a cult image.



    Germanic peoples were divided into states or communities. Each state into cantons and each canton into hundreds, or a hundred families. They fought within their cantons to prove their valour, but also to protect their chief (graf) or family patriarch.

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

    “In the choice of kings they are determined by the splendor of their race, in that of generals by their bravery. Neither is the power of their kings unbounded or arbitrary: and their generals procure obedience not so much by the force of their authority as by that of their example, when they appear enterprising and brave, when they signalise themselves by courage and prowess; and if they surpass all in admiration and pre-eminence, if they surpass all at the head of an army. But to none else but the Priests is it allowed to exercise correction, or to inflict bonds or stripes. Nor when the Priests do this, is the same considered as a punishment, or arising from the orders of the general, but from the immediate command of the Deity, Him whom they believe to accompany them in war.”



    The affairs of this nation were discussed at their riotous and often bloody gatherings.

    “Affairs of smaller moment the chiefs determine: about matters of higher consequence the whole nation deliberates; yet in such sort, that whatever depends upon the pleasure and decision of the people, is examined and discussed by the chiefs. Where no accident or emergency intervenes, they assemble upon stated days, either, when the moon changes, or is full: since they believe such seasons to be the most fortunate for beginning all transactions. They sit down as they list, promiscuously, like a crowd, and all armed. It is by the Priests that silence is enjoined, and with the power of correction the Priests are then invested. Then the King or Chief is heard, as are others, each according to his precedence in age, or in nobility, or in warlike renown, or in eloquence; and the influence of every speaker proceeds rather from his ability to persuade than from any authority to command. If the proposition displease, they reject it by an inarticulate murmur: if it be pleasing, they brandish their javelins. The most honourable manner of signifying their assent, is to express their applause by the sound of their arms.”




    These gatherings also had some interesting, shall we say extra-curricular activities. One treat for all the members in attendance was the youngest of the cantons would dance naked amidst drawn swords and presented spears. Practise conferred skill and grace at this exercise, which was a hazardous one, but was done solely for the pleasure of the spectators.

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 


    Mead

    The first known description of mead is in the hymns of the Rigveda one of the sacred books of the historical Vedic religion and (later) Hinduism dated around 1700–1100 BC. During the "Golden Age" of Ancient Greece, mead was said to be the preferred drink. Aristotle (384–322 BC) discussed mead in his Meteorologica and elsewhere, while Pliny the Elder (AD 23–79) called mead, militites in his Naturalis Historia and differentiated wine sweetened with honey or "honey-wine" from mead.
    Mead was the historical beverage par excellence and commonly brewed by the Germanic tribes in Northern Europe. However, heavy taxation and regulations governing the ingredients of alcoholic beverages led to commercially made mead becoming a more obscure beverage until recently.
    In many parts of Europe it was traditional to supply a newly married couple with enough mead for a month, ensuring happiness and fertility. Though some believe it is from this practice we get the word honeymoon, this etymology is not accepted by linguists.

    Metheglin

    Metheglin starts with traditional mead but has herbs and/or spices added. Some of the most common metheglins are ginger, tea, orange peel, nutmeg, coriander, cinnamon, cloves or vanilla. Its name indicates that many metheglins were originally employed as folk medicines. The Welsh word for mead is medd, and the word "metheglin" derives from meddyglyn, a compound of meddyg, "healing" + llyn, "liquor".



    The other habit was playing at dice when sober, or sometimes not so sober. There are accounts that before battles, and in the line, they were rolling the dice to decide on booty. What was incredible was that after all had been gambled away, they sometimes staked their freedom on a single roll. Amazingly, these terrible warriors would meekly subject themselves to being bound and sold into servitude having lost all, land, wives, children and bondsmen at the game of chance.


    Bondsmen or slaves were given land and allowed to erect their own homes, but had to give a portion of crops or animals to their graf. They were also expected to defend him against his enemies. Most slaves and bondsmen were kindly treated by their grafs, far better than the Romans treated theirs.

    Every freedman was a warrior and was expected to have his arms ready at all times. The Germania would not even conduct business without having their weapons by their side. He was also expected to be in shape, being overweight was regarded in the same manner as cowardice, not to be tolerated and would be punished severely.

    “In the assembly it is allowed to present accusations, and to prosecute capital offences. Punishments vary according to the quality of the crime. Traitors and deserters they hang upon trees. Cowards, and sluggards, and unnatural prostitutes they smother in mud and bogs under a heap of hurdles. Such diversity in their executions has this view, that in the punishing of glaring iniquities, it behoves likewise to display them to sight; but effeminacy and pollution must be buried and concealed. In lighter transgressions too the penalty is measured by the fault, and the delinquents upon conviction are condemned to pay a certain number of horses or cattle. Part of this mulct accrues to the King or the community, part to him whose wrongs are vindicated, or to his next kindred.”

    Germania also had a very strict view on the sanctity of marriage.


    “Yet the laws of matrimony are severely observed there; nor in the whole of their manners is aught more praiseworthy than this: for they are almost the only Barbarians contented with one wife...”


    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 


    “To the husband, the wife tenders no dowry; but the husband, to the wife. The parents and relations attend and declare their approbation of the presents, not presents adapted to feminine pomp and delicacy, nor such as serve to deck the new married woman; but oxen and horse accoutred, and a shield, with a javelin and sword. By virtue of these gifts, she is espoused. She too on her part brings her husband some arms. This they esteem the highest tie, these the holy mysteries, and matrimonial Gods. That the woman may not suppose herself free from the considerations of fortitude and fighting, or exempt from the casualties of war, the very first solemnities of her wedding serve to warn her, that she comes to her husband as a partner in his hazards and fatigues, that she is to suffer alike with him, during peace or during war. Thus the oxen joined in the same yoke plainly indicate, this the horse ready equipped, this the present of arms. The arms which she then receives she must preserve inviolate, and to her sons restore the same, as presents worthy of them, such as their wives may again receive, and still resign to her grandchildren.”



    Males and females were required to wait until they were both in their prime before considering getting married. In truth, the longer men kept their virginity the greater they were respected by their fellows, the thought being that staying chaste made them stronger and more muscular.

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

    “They therefore live in a state of chastity well secured; corrupted by no seducing shows and public diversions, by no irritations from banqueting. Amongst a people so numerous, adultery is exceeding rare; a crime instantly punished, and the punishment left to be inflicted by the husband. He, having cut off her hair, expels her from his house naked, in presence of her kindred, and pursues her with stripes throughout the village. For, to a woman who has prostituted her person, no pardon is ever granted. However beautiful she be, however young, however abounding in wealth, a husband she can never find. In truth, nobody turns vices into mirth there, nor is the practice of corrupting and of yielding to corruption, called the custom of the Age. Better still do those communities, in which none but virgins marry, and where to a single marriage all their views and inclinations are at once confined. Thus, as they have but one body and one life, they take but one husband, that beyond him they may have no thought, no further wishes, nor love him only as their husband but as their marriage.”



    The Cimbri also had a strict view on children.

    "To restrain generation and the increase of children is esteemed an abominable sin, as also to kill infants newly born."







    "And more powerful with them are good manners, than with other people are good laws."



    "No nation indulges more profusely in entertainments and hospitality. To exclude any human being from their roof is thought impious; every German, according to his means, receives his guest with a well-furnished table. When his supplies are exhausted, he who was but now the host becomes the guide and companion to further hospitality, and without invitation they go to the next house. It matters not; they are entertained with like cordiality. No one distinguishes between an acquaintance and a stranger, as regards the rights of hospitality. It is usual to give the departing guest whatever he may ask for, and a present in return is asked with as little hesitation. They are greatly charmed with gifts, but they expect no return for what they give, nor feel any obligation for what they receive." Tacitus



    Odds and Ends
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 



    Some appropriate Germanic clothing.




    The latest in fur capes over top of woven mantle.





    Wolf mask for ceremonial use.





    Symbolic artifacts found in bogs. Pay close attention to the bird symbols.



    Women were very respected by these people, they were often were called to consultations on matters of peace and war.





    “In history we find, that some armies already yielding and ready to fly, have been by the women restored, through their inflexible importunity and entreaty, presenting their breasts, and showing their impending captivity; an evil to the Germans then by far most dreadful when it befalls their women.”

    During a battle some Priestesses, with the wives, would beat on hides stretched over the wicker bodies of the wagons, and produce an un-earthly noise. It has been recorded that this noise, was the most terror inflicting action that the Romans ever encountered. Many veterans actually refused to face it again.

    Another aspect of this nation was a very deep respect for their environment. Tales of emissaries returning from Rome report their disdain of the Roman cities and their bloated use of natural (stone / wood) materials. The Cimbri, rather, wished to live in harmony with their natural surroundings and would offer prayers to their deities for taking wood or stone.


    “They therefore carry with them when going to fight, certain images and figures taken out of their holy groves.”











    Warfare




    The most glaring disgrace that can befall them, is to have quitted their shield; nor to one branded with such ignominy is it lawful to join in their sacrifices, or to enter into their assemblies; and many who have escaped in the day of battle, have hanged themselves to put an end to this their infamy.”


    A Cimbri’s shield was his delight, well that and hacking an enemy to pieces. Grafs would embellish theirs with bright colours and the picture of an animal to display his own martial prowess. What at first were personal ensigns of valour became in time hereditary and eventually heraldry. The freedman refrains from decorating himself, his shield however is the object of his care and he decorates it with the liveliest of colours. To lose ones shield in battle was a mortal sin.


    “To wrongly accuse someone of losing their shield was said to be a most heinous crime punishable by fines, family excommunication, flogging or all three.”


    Most Cimbri fought naked except for a short mantle, which was a loose, sleeveless cloak or cape, others fought without their mantle and just their pants. Tearing or soiling clothing was avoided by these people, rather showing their gods that they, unadorned, were pure and would be noticed. The other advantage to fighting this way allowed unrestricted movement for throwing javelins or swinging axes, clubs or swords.





    “What proves the principal incentive to their valour is, that it is not at random nor by the fortuitous conflux of men that their troops and pointed battalions are formed, but by the conjunction of whole families, and tribes of relations.”


    They would fight in their cantons or hundreds, being that fighting alongside family and relatives would cause one to fight harder to prove their courage and prowess. These cantons would form in wedges or ‘boar heads’ to penetrate the enemy lines like a spear. Oddly, it was considered bad form to outfight ones graf on the field of battle. They would sacrifice themselves for their graf, but would not show him up.





    At the battle of Vercellae, Plutarch says the Cimbri measured just short of a 4X4 mile square and marched out to battle thusly;

    “The infantry of the Cimbri marched quietly out of their fortifications, having their flanks equal to their front; every side of the army taking up thirty furlongs. Their horse, that were in number fifteen thousand, made a very splendid appearance. They wore helmets, made to resemble the head and jaws of wild beasts, and other strange shapes, and heightening these with plumes of feathers, they made themselves appear taller than they were. They had breastplates of iron and mail and white glittering shields; and for their offensive arms every one had two darts, and when they came hand to hand, they used large and heavy swords.”






    Then……the sounds would start, from behind the army came a most unearthly noise produced by the women and priestesses. They would bang on hides stretched across the framework of their baggage wagons, then slowly the entire Cimbri would emit a low guttural roar that would rise in pitch and be enhanced when they put their mouths to their shields, and banged their weapons. Picture with your eyes closed…..300,000 men and 300,000 women roaring, wailing and banging on hides and drums, and tell me fight or flight wouldn’t enter your thoughts. For some enemy soldiers, once was enough, they refused to face it again.

    “Moreover, close to the field of battle are lodged all the nearest and most interesting pledges of nature. Hence they hear the doleful howlings of their wives, the cries of their tender infants. These are to each particular the witnesses whom he most reverences and dreads; these yield him the praise which affect him most. Their wounds and maims they carry to their mothers, or to their wives, neither are their mothers or wives shocked in telling, or in sucking their bleeding sores. Nay, to their husbands and sons whilst engaged in battle, they administer meat and encouragement.”




    Germania women were not to be taken lightly. The above passage relates their familiarity of warfare. In battles with Rome, bodies of women, equipped for battle, were found on the battlefield amongst the men. Florus and Plutarch relate what occurred during the battle of Vercellae in 101 BC.;

    “But as they pursued those who fled to their camp, they witnessed a most fearful tragedy. The women, dressed in black, stood on their wagons and slew all who fled; some their husbands, some their brethren and others their fathers. They strangled their little children, and threw them under the wheels and the feet of the cattle and then killed themselves.”



    The same occurred at Aquae Sextiae with the Teutone and Ambrone women. But most perplexing to the Romans was dealing with the dogs that refused to leave their masters and mistresses lifeless bodies.

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

    Also comes the story of Drusus, a Roman commander who, in 9 BC, was preparing to cross the Elbe in Germany, when a woman of gigantic stature and stern manner appeared in front of the troops and addressed him;

    “ Thou insatiable robber! Whither wouldst thou go? Depart! The end of thy misdeeds, and thy life is at hand!!”

    Dismayed by this apparition, Drusus retreated, and within thirty days had perished after complications due to falling from his horse.




    Their tribal confederates were the Teutones, Amburones, Tigurines, Boii and the Helvetti. The known Cimbri Chiefs were, Boiorix , Gaesorix and Lugius.


    What has been reported as tactics used by the Cimbri but you will not see in game:


    The youngest and fleetest of foot would accompany the cavalry to;

    A) Rescue a wounded rider, or if the rider was killed outright, mount the horse and continue the fight.
    B) Follow the rider into a melee and strike an opponent / or opponents horse from below while they are occupied with their own rider.
    C) Hold to the edges to take down any fleeing enemy.

    It has been reported the Cimbri used chariots as did their Belgic cousins. However, it was observed that they were mainly used to transport troops into a fight, or pull wounded warriors out. It has also been reported that drums were mounted on these chariots which, when beaten, created a formidable sound.

    The Cimbri had, believe it or not......Battle Wagons. Carts / wagons were wrapped in saplings and drawn up close to the lines. During various stages of battle women, yes women, would pop up and fire arrows at the enemy. They would hide and pop up, hide and pop up. Remarkable for a group of 'barbarians' don't you think?


    Map of Cimbri / Teutones Migration



    The major battles between the Cimbri - Teutones and Rome



    Cimbri Invasion



    Battle of NOREIA 113 BC


    Consul Gnaeus Carbo’s army was defeated after he promised the Cimbri safe passage and land outside of Noricum. But guides he provided, led them into an ambush that backfired. A violent storm prevented a complete massacre and allowed some Romans to escape. Carbo, in disgrace, took his own life by drinking some poison.



    Battle of GALLIA NARBONENSIS 109 BC


    Defeat and death of Marcus Junius Silanus.



    Battle of BURDIGALA 107 BC


    Gaius Cassius Longinus Ravalla: Initially successful against the Cimbri, he was killed in an ambush by the Helvetti and Tigurini. His subordinate,C. Popilius Laenas, was forced to surrender and returned to Rome with less than four thousand survivors. This is the battle which produced the painting of “ Romans under the Yoke”, A 19th century painting showing the triumph of the Helvetians over the Romans after the battle. On the left side holding a sword, Divico, the leader of the Helvetians.





    Battle of ARAUSIO 105 BC


    Quintus Servilius Caepio: idly sat by while the Cimbri wreaked havoc around Gaul. Gnaeus Mallius Maximus: was sent by the Senate with six legions and auxiliaries and ordered to take command of both armies. However, Caepio, feeling that Mallius was inferior in social position, refused to obey or join his command.
    The Cimbri and Teutones returned and came across the Romans arranged in two separate camps, with two full armies functioning completely independent of one another. Maximus, wishing to avoid conflict, entered into negotiations with the Germani. Caepio, pompous ass that he was, unilaterally attacked and had his army annihilated and his camp ransacked. Maximus’ army suffered the same fate .

    “A Roman legate, Marcus Aurelius Scaurus, was captured and brought before Boiorix,. Scaurus was not humbled by his capture and advised Boiorix to turn back before his people were destroyed by the Roman forces. The king of the Cimbri was indignant at this impudence and had Scaurus executed by being slowly roasted alive in a wicker cage.”

    Estimates range from 120,000 to 140,000 were slaughtered, the worst carnage suffered by Rome since Cannae. October 6th was ever after called a ‘Black Day’ on the Roman calendar.

    The Teutones didn't push their advantage, but went back to Gaul, while the Cimbri went to Spain. This gave the Romans and their general Marius three years to prepare to face the frightening Swarm from the North.



    Battle of Aquae Sextiae 102 BC


    Marius Defeats Teutones


    Gaius Marius, having been elected Consul and appointed Imperator, agreed to fight the Teutones and their Ambrones allies here. A well-planned ambush resulted in a complete rout by Rome. It is said that the bones of the Teutones, Ambrones and allies that littered the field, were used for years to build fences.

    Of note here was the way Marius managed to prepare his men for the upcoming battle. He forced them to camp and build strong fortifications. He required that all of the men would take turns on the walls so that they may get accustomed to the sight and sounds of the enemy. The Teutones actually got bored waiting for Marius to exit his fort, so they marched towards Rome. It took six days for them to pass the Roman encampment, all the while calling out to the men in the legions“ "Have you any messages for your wives, for we will be with them soon.”

    After they had passed, Marius ordered his men to follow at a discreet distance, always stopping and erecting solid camps each evening. Eventually the Teutones had enough of this cat and mouse game and their leader, Teutobod, challenged Marius to a fight. Marius informed Teutobod that it wasn’t normal practice to grant such a request, but on this one occasion he would consent and named the time and place. A well placed ambush resulted in a complete rout for Rome.


    Defeat of the Teutones

    The captured women committed mass suicide, which passed into Roman legends of Germanic heroism;

    “By the conditions of the surrender three hundred of their married women were to be handed over to the Romans. When the Teuton matrons heard of this stipulation they first begged the consul that they might be set apart to minister in the temples of Ceres and Venus; and then when they failed to obtain their request and were removed by the lictors, they slew their little children and next morning were all found dead in each other’s arms having strangled themselves in the night.”



    TEUTONE WOMEN DEFEND THE CARS



    Battle of Vercellae 101 BC - (Battle of the Raudine Plain)


    Marius Defeats Cimbri


    Marius along with Quintas Catalus (and a fellow named Sulla) combined to face the Cimbri and their Tigurini allies at the same place Hannibal fought his first battle on Italian soil. Catalus was charged with guarding the passes in the Alps until Marius arrived. When the astounding numbers of the Cimbri were sited, he realized that he could not hold the mountains and withdrew to the valley below. In two camps on either side of the Athesis river Catalus awaited Marius. The Cimbri reaching the peaks viewed the Romans below and…..

    “ …came on with such insolence and contempt of their enemies, that to show their strength and courage, rather than of necessity, they exposed themselves quite naked to showers of snow. They climbed up through heaps of ice and snow, from thence placing their broad shields under their bodies they slid from the precipices along the vast slippery descents.”

    “After they had pitched their tents a little distance from the river, they surveyed the passage and determined to fill it up. Like giants of old they tore up the neighbouring hills, they brought trees pulled up by the roots, heaps of earth and massy rocks to the river and damming up its course with bulky and heavy materials. Upon this, the greatest part of the Roman soldiers, being very much affrighted, left their camp and fled.” …

    across the river except for some brave soldiers who stayed and defended their fortifications. The Cimbri admiring their courage, and after making them swear an oath on their ‘brazen bull’, let them go. Once again the Germani approached Rome to request a place to live, but Marius scoffed at their request. The Cimbri ambassadors chided Marius and promised severe penalties when their allies the Teutones arrived. Marius replied,'they are already here'. Then the captured Teutone king, Teutobod, and his princes were brought out in chains and the emissaries returned to their camp in disbelief. Boiorix rode to Marius and told him to appoint a time and place for his demise. Marius, of course, said this was not a common practice of Rome but, this one time, he would consent.


    Cimbri Negotiate with Marius


    As the savage hosts worked themselves into a frenzy, Marius and his legions approached from the east, with the sun and wind at their backs. Why from that direction would soon become evident. As the Romans entered the field, the great Cimbri army set itself into a motion that likened to the billowing of a furious ocean at high tide. So that their ranks might not be broken, those in the forefront bound themselves together with iron chains attached to their belts.”

    This surging tide of blond giants the Roman foot soldiers attacked first with their javelins. The breech this created allowed the Romans to get inside the Cimbri lines with their swords. As the battle progressed, a big cloud of dust rose from beneath the combatants' trampling feet. The light wind at the Romans' backs blew this dust mostly into the faces of the Cimbri. The hot August sun also began to hinder their sight. To shut out the harsh glare, the heavy-sweating Cimbri warriors now and then lifted their shields at the sun, thus exposing more of their large bodies to the Romans, who slew them almost at will.”


    Cimbri women slay their children


    The Roman victory was clear and concise. The 'Cimbrian Terror' was no more.


    Death of Boiorix - Battle of Vercellae


    If you were to tally the figures, Rome put seven armies and over 252,300 men into the field. Five armies were wiped out and it's estimated between 185 to 190,000 were killed or captured.

    The Cimbri and Teutones, ( plus allies ) put over 300,000 armed men into the field. Outside of the 6,000 Cimbri that had stayed behind in Belgae territory, all were slain or taken prisoner. It was reported that 90,000 prisoners were taken back to Rome. That means over 204,000 were slain. But that doesn’t take into account all the women and children who also died, which conservatively, would be 2 to 1. The Cimbri and Teutones did have a measure of revenge however, later their descendants were the bulk of the gladiators who revolted with Spartacus.


    What began as a migration for nothing more than some land to live on , had resulted in genocide and mass suicide.


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    This preview would not be possible without the following:


    tone: Models, skins, for heavy axeman, wolf warrior, bear warrior, Cimbri nobles, priestess, chieftain, Bastarnae, Batavian infantry, Canninefate cavalry, Marcomanni nobles.. screenshots

    leif_erikson: Skins for slinger, archer, roundshield, longshield and elite skirmishers, Teutones axemen, light and heavy spearmen, light and heavy swordsmen, light cavalry

    pacco: Faction Banners, 2D art, v-ray renders

    Brusilov: Screenshots
    Maxim Victor: Info on Cimbri/Danish deities, music
    Arn: music
    swhunter: Wolf and Bear warrior unit research
    Keravnos: Historical info corrections
    rory o’kane: Historical info corrections, proof reading, keeping me honest
    MarcusTullius: Proof reading, support and encouragemnet
    Mullatothrasher: Historical info, support and encouragement
    cherryfunk: for "could you move...?" sense of humour and encouragement

    dvk901: for letting me run with this..even though he probably thinks I'm in a padded cell somewhere.
    Also for this terrific mod.

    And all the rest of the incredible Roma Surrectum Team. Thanks.

    *********************







    "Even when the combat is no more than doubtful, they bear away the bodies of their slain."Tacitus






    "The Princes fight for victory; for the Prince his followers fight."








    "To bear hunger and cold they are hardened by their climate and soil."


    Due to the incredible wanderings of this tribe, the Slinger has had the advantage of perfecting his art through centuries of contact and alliances. Three slings were on his person at all times. He had two methods of slinging; one by placing the projectile in a leather ‘pocket’ and releasing one string to launch it at their enemies. The second was peculiar to the Cimbri. Stones have been found that had holes through the middle to accommodate the hide sling. No chance the stone would accidentally dislodge, but the velocity that must have been generated would stun, break bones or kill.
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 







    "But it is repugnant to their custom for any man to use arms, before the community has attested his capacity to wield them."


    Compared with their Celtic brethren, Cimbri archers, being very hardy, were more of a professional hunter than an integral part of the war machine. Because of their expertise, hiding in the forests and fields, or for that matter anywhere, made them a deadly threat to enemies. They would be used to annoy enemy forces from a distance or perhaps make a cavalry unit hesitate. Archers did however carry a spear with them in the event of close encounters, or to support fellow warriors.
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    “This amongst them is the manly robe, this the first degree of honour conferred upon their youth."





    "Upon such testimonial, either one of the rulers, or his father, or some kinsman dignify the young man in the midst of the assembly, with a shield and javelin.”


    The round shield skirmishers would have been comprised of younger warriors / hunters. Perhaps carrying two to three shorter bladed missiles to hurl at the enemy. They would also carry a combat spear with a longer point to engage in close quarter fighting if needed. Not expected to engage their foes for long like the older warriors, they would use their speed and cunning to strike and disappear. Few of their weapons would actually be manufactured , having been collected from defeated foes. They would offer some of these to their gods for thanks in helping them in battle. Often they would be trained by family members and serve their local graf.
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    "They carry javelins pointed with a piece of iron short and narrow, but so sharp and manageable, that with the same weapon they can fight at a distance or hand to hand, just as need requires."


    A little older and wiser, the long shield skirmisher most likely had a few bloody noses under his belt. His equipment better, at least what he picked up from the battlefield, or had been gifted from his graf after a victory. His shield would portray a somewhat higher status due to design and markings and would average five feet long by two feet wide. He would carry several missiles that could be hurled an immense distance, but kept his battle spear for hand to hand bloodletting. Their speed and stealth would make them a valuable asset on the field and keep their adversaries off balance.

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    “The foot throw likewise weapons missive, each particular is armed with many, and hurls them a mighty space.”


    The toughest and most hardened of the skirmishers. These men would have comprised a canton, [100 per unit] from their local tribe. Better equipped and most certainly a deadly force on the field. They perhaps drew first blood after the long and terrifying roar that would have proceeded a furious assault by their brethren . They have stout shields and iron spears. Few would have helmets, most likely a covering made from wild animals to look even more frightening. Any enemy would not relish an onslaught of three or more volleys of javelins from up to ten thousand of these giants.

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    "To one who considers the whole, it is manifest, that in their foot their principal strength lies."


    Loyal to their local graf, these unarmored warriors rely on speed and cunning. They are adept with spear, axe or sword. They are not sophisticated but will eagerly smash into enemy lines for glory and loot. If in servitude they hope that the valour shown may buy them freedman status. They can be excellent ambushers, but are not expected to hold off heavier units. Can they hold their own? Yes, even the Scordisii , that the Romans feared , were shocked by the ferocity of their assault. They can be a thorn in the side of cavalry units, but best to be used in flanking actions.


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    “What proves the principal incentive to their valour is, that it is not at random nor by the fortuitous conflux of men that their troops and pointed battalions are formed, but by the conjunction of whole families, and tribes of relations.”


    These warriors are the Cimbrian answer to Triarii and in most cases phalanxes. They also pose the greatest threat and defense against enemy cavalry. The framae or spear they carry is of the strongest material available. It may have been gifted by their family graf , claimed as a spoil, or traded for with visitors from their eastern friends. The spear was wielded with the dexterity of a chef, the smallest opening would be an adversaries last mistake. They were also armed with swords as a secondary weapon when bloodlust required a more personal form of combat. They would have more protection in the form of helmets and leather or perhaps bronze breastplates, but fear of death was not part of their being. The heavy spear has to be part of any army.

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    Some weapons retrieved from the Hjortspring Bog. The practise of sacrificing weapons to deities was widespread in the Baltic area.

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    Various spear points.


    Shield boss made of solid silver.



    Swords.


    Wooden Shield.




    Information on the Hjortspring find.
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    HJORTSPRING BOG

    In a bog just 50 meters across on the island of Als in southern Denmark, peat diggers discovered well-preserved remains of a wooden boat and spears in the 1880s. In 1921 excavations began that uncovered most of the boat and a large assemblage of weapons, all deposited in about 350–300 B.C. The practice of depositing weapons, and occasionally boats, in ponds and lakes of northern Europe became relatively common during the latter part of the Roman Iron Age, A.D. 200–500. Among the best-known sites of that period are Illerup, Nydam, Thorsberg, and Vimose. As vegetation grows into and across them over time, ponds and lakes often develop into bogs, where the waterlogged and acidic environment preserves organic materials exceptionally well. Hjortspring is the largest of the pre-Roman Iron Age weapon deposits.


    The boat, only fragments of which survive, was made of lime (linden) wood, and was more than 19 meters long (63 ft). Inside, the space for people and gear measured about 13 meters long (42.5 ft) by 2 meters wide (6.5 ft) by 0.75 meters high. The hull was made of five planks, all longer than 15 meters and about 70 centimeters (27.5 in) wide. Ten ribs across the top of the boat had seats to accommodate two persons, suggesting that twenty rowed the boat. Wooden oars for paddling and two wide oars for steering were found. The boat would have weighed only about 530 kilograms (1168 lb) and thus could have been carried easily by its crew. Its flat bottom permitted good maneuverability in the shallow waters around the Danish islands and peninsulas, and the crew could have driven it directly up onto the sandy beaches characteristic of those regions of northern Europe. At both bow and stern were double prows that may have been intended to ram boats of similarly light construction. The boat was found lying on its western side, oriented north to south. Some of the oars and spears apparently had been pushed down into the mud to stick up above the level of the water.
    The weapons found with the boat constitute one of the most important assemblages of military equipment from Iron Age northern Europe. They not only indicate the kinds of weapons that were in use and permit study of the technology of weapon manufacture but also allow for the reconstruction of fighting units and of military organization. Eleven single-edged swords of different shapes were found, ranging in length from 33 to 70 centimeters. Scabbards were made of ash wood. Two of the swords had been bent deliberately before they were deposited, a practice characteristic of Iron Age ritual. Spears (including lances) were the most abundant of the weapons present—138 iron spearheads were recovered and 31 of bone or antler. The largest of the iron spearheads was enormous, at 43.5 centimeters long (17 in), but most were between 10 and 20 centimeters in length (4 to 8 in). Some of the spearheads had been broken off their ash-wood shafts before they were deposited; others were intact.
    Shirts of chain mail and wooden shields make up the defensive part of the armaments. The fragmentary remains indicate ten or more shirts of mail—the earliest known chain mail in Europe. About fifty nearly complete wooden shields are represented, along with fragments of perhaps thirty more, forming the largest number of shields from any one site in prehistoric Europe. All are roughly rectangular in shape, some wider and some narrower, with rounded corners. Striking among these numerous weapons is their diversity in size and shape, indicating considerable variation in the equipment carried by soldiers of the time.
    Archaeologists believe that weapon deposits such as those of Hjortspring and the more numerous finds of the Roman Iron Age were offerings to deities made by victors in military conflicts—perhaps of the defeated armies' weapons, though it has not been possible to establish that the weapons found belonged to an invading force, as some scholars propose. There is strong archaeological evidence from all periods in northern Europe for the practice of sacrificing valuable goods by depositing them in watery places—lakes, ponds, and bogs. Greek and Roman texts from centuries following the Hjortspring deposit allude to the practice by peoples of northern Europe of offering the weapons of defeated enemies to their gods.
    In his recent analysis of the Hjortspring material, Klavs Randsborg draws important conclusions about the military unit represented. Because the remains indicate the presence of some eighty shields and about twice that number of spears, the weapons in the deposit seem to represent roughly eighty fighters, each armed with a shield and two spears. The boat could accommodate about twenty persons; thus the weapon deposit seems to represent four boatloads of warriors—an army of some eighty fighters. In the character of the weaponry, Randsborg sees evidence for differentiation between commanders and infantry troops. The numbers of swords, spears with unusually large iron points, chain-mail shirts, and narrow shields can be interpreted as the fighting equipment of about eleven individuals who bore more specialized and finer weapons than the other men. The numbers of spears and wide shields suggest an infantry force of about seventy. This ratio—eleven specially armed troops to seventy general foot soldiers—is similar to ratios observed in the much larger weapon deposits of the Roman Iron Age, such as the four cited earlier. The Hjortspring bog find thus provides important evidence about a variety of interrelated topics from the pre-Roman Iron Age in northern Europe, including boat building technology, weaponry, ritual practice, warfare, and social stratification implied by the differentiation in military equipment.




    Cimbri Naked Spearmen


    “For about the rest, who are more vigorous and long since tried, they crowd to attend: nor is it any shame to be seen amongst the followers of these.”



    Naked warriors stunned and awed enemies not used to their appearance on the battlefield. Much like the Germanic Harii who painted themselves and their shields all black to terrorize enemies during attacks at night. These well trained but impetuous spearmen have no fear of injury or death. Like most Germani they are experts at hiding in forests, very hardy and their war cry can cause even veteran warriors to waver.


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    "So that the infantry are elected from amongst the most robust of their youth, and placed in front of the army."


    Extremely deadly, very hardy and possessing a powerful charge, these warriors frighten nearby infantry. Axemen use a round shield for defense and a hefty axe for splitting skulls and severing limbs. Howling like banshees they sprint in their cantons to butcher any enemy that stands in their way. They are very effective in forests. These warriors were armed in the Celtic manner, and indeed the throwing-axe of the Celts, the cateia, was called the teutonus.


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    "They likewise wear the skins of savage beasts, they choose certain wild beasts, and, having flayed them, diversify their hides with many spots…."


    By the end of the second century B.C., Rome had become well acquainted with the Germani's Celtic cousins. For nearly three centuries her armies had fought against these giants. Polybius remarks,“Once they had got used to being struck down by Gauls they were incapable of imagining anything worse." There was, of course, something worse: the Cimbri and the Teutones, of the Germani. During Caesar's campaign against Ariovistus, his men asked some Gauls at Besancon, who were themselves of great stature, about the Germans. Caesar wrote,"They described the Germans, mentioning their enormous physique, their unbelievable valor, and extraordinary military training."


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    “In arraying their army, they divide the whole into distinct battalions formed sharp in front.”







    “His men rushed forward without armor, were as mad as dogs or wolves, and were as strong as bears or wild bulls, and killed people at a blow, but neither fire nor iron told upon themselves.”


    The Wolf Warrior…animals, especially wolves, offered much to the warrior bent on going beyond the bounds of his own humanity. He could walk, jump or run, but also hide, creep, lurk, scream and howl - wolves often howl in triumph at a kill - and do all he could, to frighten the enemy. He could take on the wolves rage and pride, thus freeing himself of cultural constraints or conscience. The Cimbri had a deep respect for wolves, observing them, copying them, and trying to be them. These warriors were stealth fighters, relying on camouflage and trickery to surprise an opponent. Fitted for speed and surprise , attacking and disappearing they were armed with spear,sword and shield , and each had the gaping maw of a wolf atop his head.

    Inspiration for single edge sword.




    The barbed spear heads that are above (top left) and below the sword and sheath are the main weapon of both the Wolf Warrior and the Canninefates Cavalry. It's not hard to imagine the damage this type of weapon would inflict upon entering flesh. The problem was deciding what to do after being impaled and still alive. Pulling the spear back out was going to inflict incredible damage from the inside. Pushing the barb spear through was going to cause severe damage and shock.

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    The idea of changing into an animal gripped the imagination of early man. A cave dweller in Germany 34,000 years ago carved a lion-headed human figure in ivory.
    "We are not just afraid of predators, we are transfixed by them.”
    In a deeply tribal sense, we love our monsters. With such animal sympathy, he who was a predator was a keener warrior.


    Hungry as wolves who rend and bolt raw flesh ,
    Hearts filled with battle frenzy that never dies ,
    They gorge on the kills till all their jaws drip red with blood,
    Belching bloody meat, but the fury, never shaken




    Wolves played a great role as warrior models throughout Eurasia and North America. Wolf warriors appear among Indo-Europeans, Turks, Mongols and others. They sent forth wolf warriors as scouts and even patterned their warfare on wolf like spying. Since wearing the animals skin is essential to animal warrior styles, it is interesting to note that it existed in both the Old and New worlds.
    Wolves and hyenas, almost alone among animals, fight in packs – as if going to war. Fiercely baring their teeth, with eyes flashing danger, howling dreadfully, they bite through their prey’s windpipe; they are the most gripping animal warriors.

    “Wolves or hounds, Julian welcomed such warriors into the Roman army. To win men like these into the Auxilia Palatina attack troops, Rome offered them higher pay than legionaries, less drudgery work and - less discipline.”
    Ancient Germanic Warriors – Michael Speidel





    “The Gauls said that often when they had encountered the Germans, they had not been able to endure even the expression on their faces or the glare of their eyes.”




    “This fury, which was called berserkergang, is said to have begun with shivering, chattering of the teeth, and chill in the body, and then the face swelled and changed its color.”

    Finesse was not in the vocabulary of these ‘animals’. Brute force and viciousness would however be the norm. All the enemy could see peering out from a tree line was the gigantic shape of a man-bear, with fierce blue eyes burning with a desire to pound them to a pulp. When loosed upon them, this human avalanche of screaming muscle would often break through the enemy line, clawing and battering terror stricken opponents.


    “With this was connected a great hot-headedness, which at last gave over into a great rage, under which they howled as wild animals, and cut down everything they met without discriminating between friend or foe. “

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    "A huge bear advanced before King Hrolf’s men, and always next at hand where the king was. It killed more men with its paw, than any five of the king’s champions did. Blows and missiles glanced off of the animal and it beat down both men and horses."
    Hrolfs saga Kraka


    Bear warriors occur less than wolf warriors in Europe, however most, if not all are attributed to Germanic warriors. Few are known as Celts or Italia. Scene thirty-six of Trajan’s Column is the only portrayal of ancient European bear warriors as they march with Trajan’s Germanic troops.
    Most times, according to ancient legends, they were considered “berserks” and paired with wolf warriors. In an epic poem written in praise of King Harald Fairhair’s battle on the Hafrsfjord 872 AD, Thorbjorn Hornklofi says wolf warriors and berserks began the fight;

    “Berserks snorted as the battle began,
    Wolf warriors howled and shook weapons.”

    This was sometimes referred to as ‘beserksgang’, the warriors dressed, howled, snorted, strutted and altogether behaved like bears or wolves. Not only to frighten foes, but because for the fight, they felt themselves to be bears or wolves.
    Wolves of course howl, attacking bears, on the other hand snort. They push short bursts of air through their teeth and open lips. Strutting ahead while wearing bear hoods, their role as king’s champions is to lead the warriors of the line, passing on to them the battle madness of Wotan.





    “But it is infamy during life, and indelible reproach, to return alive from a battle where their Prince was slain."




    "In the day of battle, it is scandalous to the Prince to be surpassed in feats of bravery, scandalous to his followers to fail in matching the bravery of the Prince."


    Some of the more veteran warriors a leader has to lean on, these as well as their more experienced heavy swordsman, had javelins or darts that they would launch before engaging hand to hand. But their joy was hacking and chopping with the sword, which could shatter shields, separate limbs and split helmets. "…the barbarians would raise their swords aloft and smite after the manner of wild boars, throwing the whole weight of their bodies into the blow like hewers of wood…" After terrorizing their foe vocally, they would sprint en masse in wedges to try and penetrate the enemy front line.

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    "To preserve their Prince, to defend him, and to ascribe to his glory all their own valorous deeds, is the sum and most sacred part of their oath.”


    The heavy swordsman was described thusly;

    "Moreover, their courage and daring made them irresistible. And when they engaged in battle they came on with the swiftness and the force of fire, so that no one could withstand their onset, but all who came in their way became their prey and booty." Plutarch

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    They would carry a stout framae, a brightly coloured shield and a fine sword. The Cimbri were traders of amber that was very much sought after by eastern and Grecian peoples. Quality swords would be obtained from Dacian or Scythian traders. They would also have helmets and breastplates made of either bronze or iron. A warrior worthy and capable of holding the line, or possibly used as shock troops.



    “But it is infamy during life, and indelible reproach, to return alive from a battle where their Prince was slain."



    These well trained but impetuous warriors terrify nearby infantry with their warcry. Experts at hiding in long grass and darkened forests; they are very hardy and use their single edged blade with deadly effectiveness.

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    “To recoil in battle, provided you return again to the attack, passes with them rather for policy than fear.”






    "The princely dignity they confer even upon striplings, whose race is eminently noble, or whose fathers have done great and signal services to the State.”


    Every enemies worst nightmare. Terror and sheer power were the best way to describe these giants. The nobles equipment would be of the finest available, the sword that they carried was an extension of their body. They were incredibly ferocious and deadly accurate. These nobles would be leaders of their cantons and their cantons would fight to impress and protect them. Oddly, accounts relate that it was ‘bad manners' to show up your graf on the battlefield. So, if the average Cimbri warrior fought with such intensity to strike fear into the Romans, Scordisci and Gauls then…….well I’ll leave it to your imagination.

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    The Noble, Marcomanni and Wolf Warrior carry a single edged sword representing finds made from the Krogsbolle deposit. These were pre-Roman Iron Age weapons dated from 250 to 200 BC. Also in the find, including six single edged swords were, one double edge sword and twenty four spear and lance heads.







    "They have a tradition that Hercules also had been in their country, and him above all other heroes they extol in their songs when they advance to battle."


    They have been described as not having impressive mounts but very well trained. Often the Cimbri would race the tides in their native Jutland, merely for the fun and daring. These very hardy horsemen were well trained at hiding in the forests and smart enough to wait for the right moment to strike. Able to outrun all but the swiftest cavalry, they also had learned the cantabrian formation. Javelins hurled with deadly accuracy are a compliment to their respectable spear handling in melee combat. Very capable when running down routing troops.

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    Crossband Helmets

    "A head-guard along the helmet’s roof, with wires wound round, guarded the outside so that a sword could not harm him." From Beowulf

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    Little is known of Germanic helmets from this time period, which is why there have been many discussions regarding the Cimbri armour. No Germanic helmets from antiquity have been discovered, other than some re-worked Roman ones. Trajan’s Column does make up for this somewhat in its depiction of four ‘irregulars’. Scene thirty-six, shows a helmet consisting of a brow band, fore to aft band and ear to ear band, held on by a chinstrap. The angular shape of the bands determines they were made of metal, and therefore are called “Crossband ” style helmets. Between the bands, and also below the neck of the helmet, locks of hair can be seen. These are considered the warriors own locks, as opposed to metal imitation of hair or wigs found on Roman helmets.



    In the render below, tone has crafted the crossband style helmet, but as an added feature, enhanced it with a wale running fore to aft. The wale added strength to the more simple style of crossband.


    Crossband without the wale but with leather skull cap.



    Progressive styles of crossbands;



    Crossband with neck guards.



    Swedish decorative with cheek, eye and nose guards.



    Heavy bronze crossband.






    "For from the liberality of their Prince, they demand and enjoy that war-horse of theirs, with that victorious javelin dyed in the blood of their enemies."



    The noble cavalry must have been the primary reason for desertions in whomever they faced. Averaging over six and a half feet tall,.."they wore helmets representing the heads of wild beasts, and other unusual figures, and crowned with a winged crest, to make them appear taller. They were covered with iron coats of mail, and carried white glittering shields. Each had a battleaxe and in close fight they used large heavy swords."

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    When the Cimbri confronted Marius, 15,000 cavalry “ moved as like one, turning to the right so perfectly as to not leave one behind or out of place”
    As heavy cavalry, extremely hardy and well trained, this unit has wedge capabilities and a powerful charge. Silently using the forest to their advantage, they strike terror into nearby infantry.



    "These women were considered seers, and accompanied the warriors wives. Barefoot , gray haired, dressed in white with flaxen cloaks fastened on with clasps and a bronze girdle, they prowled amongst the lines."


    Having survived a tidal wave of howling, half crazed behemoths, any prisoner would look forward to slavery rather than the Priestess.
    "They carried swords and would seek out the prisoners and place wreaths on their heads. Then they would lead them to a two handled earthenware jar big enough to hold about thirty litres. Beside the vessel was a platform that the priestess would mount, and after bending over the kettle, would cut each prisoners throat after he had been lifted up. From the blood that would pour forth, the priestesses would draw a prophecy.
    Others would take the body and slice it open to inspect the entrails and proclaim a victory for their people."
    An officer no man dares disobey.

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    Inspiration for the sword carried by the Priestess.

    Lingholmgĺrd. Two edged iron sword with accompanying scabbard (lower sword) from the late pre-Roman Iron Age, 1st to 2nd century BC. Carried by our Cimbri priestess:




    "For such are courted by Embassies, and distinguished with presents, and by the terrors of their fame alone often dissipate wars."


    The chieftain, graf, prince. The strongest and wisest warriors, leading their cantons against all who would oppose them. They fight for glory and to appease their gods, to impress and protect their wives, mothers and children. None has a greater purpose than to slay his enemy. Armed with sword, shield and the strength of ten, he embraces the thought of a glorious death, so that he too may drink with the fallen heroes in Walhalla.



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    The chieftain's helmet is based on a late bronze age model, but horned helmets continued to be found into the iron age. This helmet in particular was chosen because of the modelled eye and nose parts in keeping with the descriptions of the Cimbri from the historians.



    This particular piece is on display in Denmark. Remarkable job by tone for the Chieftain unit.






    **** AOR UNITS ****
    FOR THE CIMBRI




    "They are like weapons and armour - only to be used in war."




    The Batavians were originally part of the Chatti, but disagreements led to a sizeable portion of the tribe leaving for new lands. They settled on a large island between the rivers Waal Meuse and Rhine. Their name lives on in the present name of the island, Betuwe.
    According to Tacitus, they were the most noble and brave of all the Germans. Their bodies were more hardy, their minds more vigorous. Their men cut neither hair nor beard till they had slain an enemy.

    "…till they have slain an enemy do they ever lay aside this form of countenance by vow sacred to valour. Over the blood and spoil of a foe they make bare their face. They allege, that they have now acquitted themselves of the debt and duty contracted by their birth, and rendered themselves worthy of their country, worthy of their parents."

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    The Batavi contributed only men and arms to the Roman Empire; eight auxiliary units of infantry, one squadron of cavalry, and, until Galba, dismissed them, the mounted bodyguard of the emperor. (Although these troops were re-instated as bodyguards by the emperor Trajan). The Batavian cavalry became famous throughout the Republic and the Empire. They were the favorite troops of Caesar, and with reason, for it was their valour, which turned the tide of battle at Alesia.

    "They had also at home a select body of cavalry, who practiced with special devotion the art of swimming, so that they could stem the stream of the Rhine with their arms and horses, without breaking the order of their squadrons."




    Kinsmen to the Batavians were the Canninefates, not a large tribe by any means but very feared and powerful on the battlefield. They became part of ‘The Batavian Revolt’ ;

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 




    "The Canninefates, whose origin and language were similar to those of the Batavians, promptly acceded to the invitation, and chose for their leader Brinno, a man of heedless valour, who, according to a custom of the barbarians, was installed in his dignity by being placed on a shield, and elevated upon the shoulders of his attendants."

    Brinnos’ father was responsible for making fun of Caligula’s infamous non-expeditions into Germany. They are an extremely hardy unit, excellent at hiding in forests and will frighten nearby enemy infantry.
    The cavalry did have another distinguishing characteristic, they carried a rather large barbed spear, later referred to as a lance. The tactics they employed were one of the mainstays of Roman cavalry units as dictated by the emperor Hadrian.




    "Amongst these the Marcomanians are most signal in force and renown; nay, their habitation itself they acquired by their bravery, as from thence they formerly expulsed the Boians."


    The Marcomanni people lived next to the Quadi and the Naristi in present day Bohemia. Scholars believe their name derives from one of two possible sources: (1) old Germanic forms of "march" ("frontier") and "men"; or (2) the name of a Roman legate, Marcus Fabius Romanus, who deserted Drusus' legions during his German campaign in 13 BC. Romanus is thought to have brought together several Germanic tribes into a cohesive fighting force. Another source indicates that Romanus was exiled for wheat speculation and did not, in fact, desert the army on campaign, though the source also links Romanus with the Marcomanni in the years following his exile.
    Drusus attacked the Marcomanni in 9 BC, forcing them into what is now Bohemia. Later, their ruler Maroboduus established a powerful kingdom with the Vandals, Sarmatians and Quadi, that even Augustus perceived as a threat to Rome. Before he could act, however, the war in Illyria intervened. Eventually Maroboduus was deposed and exiled by Catualda (AD 19). These warriors are outstanding in their training, strength and glory, and are extremely hardy heavy infantry. Masters of forest tactics they will hold the line to allow their general the chance at victory.
    With their confederates the Quadi eventually they became known as the Suebi.


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    The ethnic origin of the Bastarnae remains mysterious. Polybus and the authors who copy him regard them as Galatae. Livy claims they are Celts. Strabo, Pliny, and Tacitus regard them as Germans. Tacitus expressly declares their German origin but says that the race was degraded by intermarriage with the Sarmatians. When they first appear in historical sources, they were settled in Galicia and Bukovina. In 230 BC they, along with the Scirii, besieged the Black Sea port of Olbia. In 200 BC they appeared on the lower Danube, and were used by Philip V of Macedon against his Thracian neighbours. Defeated, the Bastarnae returned north, some of their number settled on Peuce an island in the Danube (hence tribal name, Peucini). Their main body occupied the country between the eastern Carpathians and the Danube. Before the coming of Zalmoxis, Bastarnae worshipped Gebeleizis as the supreme god, the master of the earth, sky, storms, thunder and lighting. He is also the god of war and of the military aristocracy.
    The Bastarnae reputation as powerful warriors led Appian to call them "the bravest nation of all". As allies of Perseus of Macedonia, as subjects of the Sarmatians and then as mercenaries under Mithridates the Great. They did not fear death as it was the link to their god and immortality. This extremely hardy, heavy infantry can be impetuous but will unleash a very powerful charge. They are excellent when used in forested areas and ambushes.

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    The Falx


    Both Trajan’s Column and the Adamklissi were clearly designed to be "read" by their audiences. On both monuments, three distinct types of dress can be discerned that 'marry up' with the Dacians and their Bastarnae and Sarmatian allies, and are easily recognizable. The Germanic Bastarnae wear what the Romans thought of as Germanic garb - loose trousers, bare chested, bearded and even hair tied in that most distinctive Germanic 'Suebian knot’. Only warriors of this type wield two-handed falxes, and are quite distinct from depictions of Dacians...This has been the accepted and settled view of scholars on the subject for well over 100 years.



    What makes that hooked blade so very dangerous is that it can reach over and behind the scutum's top edge to puncture the helmet or pierce the neck of the soldier behind the scutum, while still keeping the falxman out of reach of the gladius. A sica has the same ability, though much shorter in reach.



    The advantage of a falx doing this is you could hit the top edge of a scutum with little force and cleave the metal edging, slicing in 2-3 inches and then wrench the scutum from the enemy’s hand. This now leaves you with a 6-foot distance, which can be spanned, by your weapon but not the short sword of the legionary.



    Baltic Infantry



    Cherusci Swordsmen



    Cherusci Spearmen



    Chatti Spearmen










    I hope you enjoyed this preview.

    Arnspac

    +


    Last edited by Arnspac; July 14, 2009 at 07:25 PM.
    Cu mândrie, under the Patronage of leif_erikson


    There is no disease I spit on more than treachery.

  2. #2
    Lou337's Avatar Decanus
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum: Cimbri Faction Preview

    I knew it! =D What a great thing to find when coming home from work on this new year's day! I'm gonna get some popcorn and look at this all veryy closely.
    Visit my blog

  3. #3
    Arnspac's Avatar Miss You Calvin
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum: Cimbri Faction Preview

    Well unzip the music and put on the head phones too.
    Enjoy.
    Cu mândrie, under the Patronage of leif_erikson


    There is no disease I spit on more than treachery.

  4. #4
    Space Wolves's Avatar Primicerius
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    oh god i just shatted myself:hmmm:

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  5. #5
    Senator
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    Wow, what an amazingly detailed preview. Think it took me more than half an hour to read it all.

    Absolutely awesome faction, I think it wouldn't be so far-fetched to say that the Norse cultures in Scandinavia could have been descended from these people or must have been culturally influenced. Lots of similarities, from the Gods to the armour and the culture to the language.

    My fav unit from this preview has to be the Bear Warrior, that one just looks damn awesome! Very frighteningly realistic textures on it as well. I would definitely be scared to face one of these on the battlefield... and I'm talking about facing them in-game here.

    I have to say I really think the textures and the models have to be a high-point in this mod. Just imaging these units on the M2TW engine would be mind-blowing, literally!

  6. #6
    Blackshamrock.'s Avatar Campidoctor
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    Well done m8 its awsome. WHat a preview.

  7. #7
    Arnspac's Avatar Miss You Calvin
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    Quote Originally Posted by hekk View Post
    Wow, what an amazingly detailed preview. Think it took me more than half an hour to read it all.
    Hmmm....I must have left something out. (kidding)

    Absolutely awesome faction, I think it wouldn't be so far-fetched to say that the Norse cultures in Scandinavia could have been descended from these people or must have been culturally influenced. Lots of similarities, from the Gods to the armour and the culture to the language.
    Considering the Cimbri left no written language, we had to base everything ( and argue sometimes ) on the ancient historians. Most of the historical background I used was published pre 1950's. Tough sometimes remembering 'f' means 's'.

    My fav unit from this preview has to be the Bear Warrior, that one just looks damn awesome! Very frighteningly realistic textures on it as well. I would definitely be scared to face one of these on the battlefield... and I'm talking about facing them in-game here.
    It almost looks as though it will jump off the screen at you doesn't it? Kudos to tone for the Bear Warrior.

    I have to say I really think the textures and the models have to be a high-point in this mod. Just imaging these units on the M2TW engine would be mind-blowing, literally!
    The mind reels.

    The Team thanks you.
    Last edited by Arnspac; January 01, 2009 at 06:41 PM.
    Cu mândrie, under the Patronage of leif_erikson


    There is no disease I spit on more than treachery.

  8. #8
    Father Jack's Avatar expletive intended
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    Quote Originally Posted by Arnspac View Post
    Considering the Cimbri left no written language, we had to base everything ( and argue sometimes ) on the ancient historians. Most of the historical background I used was published pre 1950's. Tough sometimes remembering 'f' means 's'.
    Im guessing you used Tacitus's 'Germania' for alot of it? I have just finished reading it again and its very interesting.
    Pedicabo ego vos et irrumabo.

  9. #9
    Arnspac's Avatar Miss You Calvin
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    Quote Originally Posted by Macky View Post
    Im guessing you used Tacitus's 'Germania' for alot of it? I have just finished reading it again and its very interesting.
    That actually was the basis for most of the 'RED' and 'BLUE' quotes and the Social aspects of the Cimbri. So many scholars have written their interpretation of what Tacitus was saying it can get confusing. tone and I kept re-hashing the Noble Cavalry to try and match desciption to depiction. That particular description, ( of the Cimbri cavalry ) has so many different options it was MADDENING.
    A History of All Nations was a good source and, Researches into the Physical History of Mankind, The Wiltshire Archealogical and Natural History Magazine, gave nice juicy tidbits as well. Also The Cimbri Chronology.

    The info is out there it's getting two agreeing sources that was the hard part.
    Last edited by Arnspac; January 01, 2009 at 07:20 PM.
    Cu mândrie, under the Patronage of leif_erikson


    There is no disease I spit on more than treachery.

  10. #10

    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    We also used "Ancient Germanic Warriors" a fair bit, particularly for the info about crossband helmets, wolf warriors and bear warriors.


    Under patronage of Spirit of Rob; Patron of Century X, Pacco, Cherryfunk, Leif Erikson.

  11. #11

  12. #12

    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    very very very very very nice..
    except from the naked guy

  13. #13

    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    they will have loincloths by default - there will be an option to have them without in the installer.
    'Ecce, Roma Surrectum!' Beta Tester and Historian
    Under the proud patronage of MarcusTullius

  14. #14
    ChrisJoker's Avatar Semisalis
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    WOW!!!!! takes my breath away

  15. #15
    ISA Gunner's Avatar Campidoctor
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    Fantastic! I never thought that the Germanic tribe would be the Cimbri. Very surprised - but that just makes it even better. Stunning preview, stunning.

    Thats my grandmother when i don't like her cooking...
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  16. #16

    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    damn! expansve! it will be a joy to conquer these demons of the rein. Tone, or anybody, please tell me there is a unit with that second type of banded helmet! the one with the leather skullcap it looks so cool; is that model you made of the helmet a unit we get to play with? perhaps an AOR?
    Lion of Judea
    Mitzada Sheni Lo Tipol

  17. #17

    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    TIME TO PUT THIS DIRTY ROMANS ON THERE KNEES AND CHOP OF THERE HEADS!!! (Love this faction)
    Last edited by Krum De Kraziie King; January 01, 2009 at 09:50 PM.

  18. #18

    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    What can I say that hasn't been said yet? My congratulations to such an amazing team! You're doing a hell of a job. I really admire you guys .

  19. #19

    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    Wow, the cimbri had an awesome respectful society, yet they were tough and crazy, i like it a lot.

  20. #20
    ChrisJoker's Avatar Semisalis
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    Default Re: Roma Surrectum 2.0: Cimbri Faction Preview

    Just wondering were they Celtic or Germanic?:hmmm:

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