Legio V Alaudae

Legio V Alaudae, the larks, sometimes known as Gallica, was levied by Julius Caesar in 52 BC from native Gauls. They fought in the Gallic wars until 49 BC, when they were moved to Spain. They served with Marcus Antonius between 41 and 31 BC and probably fought in Actium. After Antonius suicide, they were merged into Augustus’ army in 30 BC.

Their emblem depicted an elephant and was awarded in 46 BC for bravery against a charge of elephants in the Battle of Thapsus.

Known locations for the Alaudae include:

• Battle of Thapsus - 46 BC
• Munda - 45 BC
• Battle of Forum Gallorum and Mutina - 43 BC
• Philippi - 42 BC
• Rhine frontier - 19 BC to 69 AD

The end of the Legio V Alaudae is not clear, but some sources suggest that they were destroyed in the Batavian rebellion in the year 70.

See also: List of Roman legions, Roman legion

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