Changes

In 146BC the [[Roman]]s, at war with [[Carthage]], began construction of a large fleet of warships based on the Greek design, but adapted to suit Roman fighting techniques. The most innovative feature of the Roman trireme was a strong boarding plank attached to a mast on the foredeck and mounted on a swivel. This plank was dropped onto the deck of the enemy where it was held fast by an iron spike on the end of the plank. The Romans could then board and use their superior hand-to-hand battle skills to subdue the enemy.

In 146BC the [[Roman]]s, at war with [[Carthage]], began construction of a large fleet of warships based on the Greek design, but adapted to suit Roman fighting techniques. The most innovative feature of the Roman trireme was a strong boarding plank attached to a mast on the foredeck and mounted on a swivel. This plank was dropped onto the deck of the enemy where it was held fast by an iron spike on the end of the plank. The Romans could then board and use their superior hand-to-hand battle skills to subdue the enemy.

Like its Greek forerunner, the Roman trireme was normally rowed by freemen – usually impoverished [[peasant]]s or [[plebian]]s – not [[slaves]].

Like its Greek forerunner, the Roman trireme was normally rowed by freemen – usually impoverished [[peasant]]s or [[plebeian]]s – not [[slaves]].

Reference: “Dictionary of Ship Types” (Dudszus & Henriot)

Reference: “Dictionary of Ship Types” (Dudszus & Henriot)