The Praetorian Guards: To Serve and Protect the Roman Emperors… Most of the Time

The Praetorian Guard is said to be one of the most prestigious military units in the ancient world, and is arguably one of the most well-known today. These elite soldiers are best known for serving as the Roman Emperors’ bodyguards. Ironically, several emperors were actually assassinated by their own Praetorian Guards and a few others were placed on the throne by them. Apart from that, the Praetorian Guard had other duties that are perhaps less well-known than their primary duty of protecting the emperor.

The Origins of the Praetorian Guard

It is said that the origins of the Praetorian Guard can be found in the Roman Republic. During that period of time, they were formed to protect the generals of the Roman army whilst in the field. A Roman general was known as a praetor, and his residence in the field was called the praetorium. Thus, the bodyguards of the praetor were called the Praetorian Guards.

Scholars believe that this unit of bodyguards was first formed by Scipio Africanus, who chose its members from his bravest troops, exempted them from all their duties except guarding his person, and gave them a six-fold pay. Nevertheless, it has been pointed out that the practice of using selected troops as bodyguards can be found in earlier times of the Republic as well.