The Roman Army a_playera_playera_player Roman formation The 'tortoise' in action The wedge was an aggressive formation used to 'crack open' enemy lines. Relatively small groups of legionaries could form such a triangle and then drive their way into the enemy ranks. As more Roman soldiers reinforced the wedge from behind, the enemy line could be forced apart. As breaking the enemy's formation was very often the key to winning a battle, the wedge formation was vitally important battlefield tactic of the Roman army. The order to repel cavalry by Roman army officers brought about a defensive formation, in which the front rank formed a tight wall of shields with their pila protruding to form a line of spearheads ahead of the wall. Undoubtedly it would be very hard to bring a horse to break into that formation. The most likely occurrence would be that it would come to a halt of its own will ahead of the spearheads. It was at that moment that horse and rider would be at their most vulnerable against the ranks behind the first line of infantry which would then hurl their spears at them. Given the short distance and the training legionaries received, it is likely such halted cavalry, frantically trying to turn their horses around to retreat, whilst colliding with horses following in the charge, would prove very easy targets. If one further considers the likely possibility of archers being present, the effect of this formation could indeed be devastating. The orb was a defensive formation in the shape of a complete circle which could be taken by a unit which had either become detached from the army's main body and had become encircled by the enemy, or a formation which might be taken by any number of units if the greater army had fallen into disorder during a battle. It can hence be seen as a formation representing a desperate 'last stand' by units of a collapsing army. But also it can be seen as a disciplined holding position by a unit which has been divided from the army's main body in battle and which is waiting for the main force to rejoin them. In either case, it is not a formation one would like to find oneself in, as it obviously indicates that they are surrounded by the enemy. Naturally any officers or archers would be positioned in the centre of the orb, as can be seen in the example above. Punic War Three Stage War Conflict Conflict between Rome and Carthage over control of trade in Western Mediterranean. Rome Rome was still a young power, waiting for growth and strength. 1 st Stage BC Sicily Messina (city-state) asked for protection against Carthage. 1 st Stage Rome took the island of Sicily away from Carthage. 2 nd Stage Hannibal (from Carthage) dedicated himself at the age of 9 to destroy Rome In 218 BCE at the age of 30 he starts out for Rome Takes him 5 Months to travel from Spain to Italy Hannibal crossed the alps into northern Italy and overwhelmed several Roman armies. 3 rd Stage BC Rome attacks Carthage. Rome wanted to destroy Carthage forever. 3 rd Stage The Romans put salt in their fields so Carthage would not grow goods for years to come. 3 rd Stage Rome accomplished its goal. Carthage is never a power again. 2011 News in Tunisia On January 14, 2011,Zine el- Abidine Ben AliOn January 14, 2011,Zine el- Abidine Ben Ali, who had ruled with an iron hand for 23 years. left the country, after trying unsuccessfully to placate the demonstrators with promises of elections. According to government figures 219 dies and more injured during the month long demonstrations.left the country,