The history of an army is essentially the history of its deeds. The history of an army within an army is more intriguing. The Praetorian Guard, a modern term, was founded, or rather formalised, around 27 BC by Augustus for the protection of the emperor and his family. Hitherto, cohors praetoria had been a generic description of the body of troops detailed, ad hoc, for the protection of a general on campaign.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Keep reading with a free trial
Get your first month free when you subscribe. After that it’s just £1 a week for full website and app access. There’s no commitment, you can cancel any time.
Offer ends in:
${days} days ${hours} hrs ${minutes} mins ${seconds} secs
Or
Comments
Flash sale:
10 weeks of unlimited digital access for £1
Join the conversation with other Spectator readers. Subscribe to leave a comment.
CLAIM OFFERGet 10 weeks of online and app access for just £1. That's a saving of more than 80% off the usual rate.
Already a subscriber? Log in