Replaced unit histories with Paul's new descriptions.

This was SVN commit r1744.
2026-07-20 23:27:13 +00:00 · 2005-01-18 20:05:38 +00:00
parent e62258e47e
commit 1e2cd629f3
59 changed files with 59 additions and 59 deletions
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Celtaidd March Milwr"

-			history="The Celtaidd March Milwr was used in hit-and-run tactics even more than the Celtaidd Marchog."
+			history="The Celts were extremely proficient horsemen and created excellent tack for their mounts. This included an early form of saddle with horns at each corner, giving them a huge edge in terms or control over their counterparts. Since the cavalry was made up of rich nobles armor and fine weapons were in great supply, making them formidable opponents."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Celtic Basic Javelinist Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Celtaidd Castog"

-			history="The Britons did indeed utilise Mastiffs (and other breeds according to some sources) as War Hounds to some degree of success against the Romans (especially the cavalry). So much so that the Romans took the animals back to Rome for fighting exhibitions and improving the stock of their own guard dogs."
+			history="The Celts used large dogs such as mastiffs or wolfhounds in combat, especially against enemy cavalry. The Romans were very impressed with the strength and ferocity of these dogs. Many were brought back to Rome for the gladiator arena or to serve as guard dogs."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Celtic Basic Spearman Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Celtaidd Marchog"

-			history="Owning a horse was a sign of nobility. Although the primary unit in the Celtic army was the infantry, they had great respect for their horses. They honoured their speed and their bravery. They actually assigned two warriors to one horse. When one warrior was tired in battle, they would run back to camp and the other warrior would get on and go fight. Another method was to take their mount and tether it to a stake in the ground then go fight on foot and run back to their horse when they needed to flee. They fought as mercenaries in the Punic wars. Primarily used in ambushes and hit and run tactics. After the fall of Gaul, the Romans used the Gallic warriors and horses to greatly strengthen their army."
+			history="Like a sword, a horse was a sign of nobility and as a result the Celtic cavalry was often better equipped than the infantry. Armor and helmets were common, while weapons consisted of a large bladed spear and a long slashing sword for close combat. Shields could be round, hexagonal, or oval, but the most common was a regular oval body shield with the top and bottom shorn off. Unlike other horseman, the Celts were not afraid to leap off their mount to fight on foot then climb into the saddle again when possible."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Celtic Basic Swordsman Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Celtaidd Merch"

-			history="Being a woman in Celtic society was remarkable better than any other social society at this time. Women were viewed as equals to men. The woman had control over every piece of property she owned as she came into marriage. In marriage, she had more value than her husband; she controlled the domestic life of the home. The bloodline of the family also passed through the woman. If a man was a noble or king, it was also not uncommon for women to take leadership positions if the husband died. Celtic women were said to be fair to look upon, but also as strong as their husbands."
+			history="Celtic women enjoyed many freedoms, especially compared to their Greek and Roman counterparts. Although they did not fight in battle as some believe Gallic women were quite large and very strong compared to most men. They were able to own property and were capable of gaining considerable wealth. Some noblewomen took over power when their husband’s died, such as Boudicca of the Iceni. In addition, family trees were drawn up along female lines, men claiming their ancestry through female ancestors."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Celtic Female Citizen</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Celtaidd Gaesata"

-			history="Gaesum means spear. Gaesatae were a group of warriors outside of 'normal' Celtic society. They typically fought naked. They were usually young warriors for hire, fighting wherever the wind took them. They typically carried 4 spears with them: one stout spear for hand to hand combat, and 3 smaller spears for throwing."
+			history="Gesatae were young men who devoted themselves to war, often serving as mercenaries for other tribes. They were the last Celts to fight stark naked to show their courage, often carrying only a shield with several javelins and a regular Celtic spear. More often than not they were covered in geometric designs painted in woad, a blue dye."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actions>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Celtaidd Shleiyder"

-			history="This character actually should be a Gesatae, but for gameplay reasons his function was split. Shleiy is manx for spear. Shleiyder in manx means spearman. In order to visually make him distinct from the Gesata he will have the more armored appearance that the swordsman has."
+			history="The spear was the main weapon of the Celts, arming the bulk of their forces. The average Celt would only have to take up his long spear and body shield to be ready for battle. While armor was rare the rabid fighting spirit of the Celts more than made up for in vigor what was lost in protection."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actions>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Celtaidd Cleddyfwr"

-			history="The sword was actually not as common among Celts as most people would think. It was a weapon usually reserved for the wealthy or those who were able to plunder a sword from someone less fortunate than they. The Celts who did have swords were renowned for their power and skill with the blade. The blade was 2 sided, long, and usually single handed. It was said to be an extension of their arm."
+			history="Celtic warriors were armed with a long double-edged iron sword of extreme beauty and power. While rare and often confined to the upper class, the sword was able to chop through shields and armor with ease. Most Celts fought stripped to the waist with their hair spiked with lime carrying a large body shield, but the richer members of society were able to procure helmets and chain mail hauberks. A fully equipped Celtic warrior was the equal of any “civilized” soldier."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actions>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Briton Cruthni"

-			history="Some have argued that Picts are not truly Celtic people, but actual aboriginals to the British Isle. I do believe that they are an offshoot of the Celtic peoples, if you disagree with me, I'll scan some pages out of a book that have proved to me that they are. They resided north of Hadrian’s wall where several crossbows have been dug up that carbon dating show are within our time period. Also a few stone carvings with a crossbow like weapon with a hooded man. It is unknown if it was something the Picts invented themselves or if it was introduced by the Romans. A Pict's fighting technique was not as ‘honourable’ as a true Celt. They were the inventors of the typical highland style guerilla warfare that would be copied for centuries after their submission."
+			history="The Picts were famous for their habit of covering themselves in blue war paint and fighting completely naked long after other peoples had ceased to. While there are serious questions about their origins, the Picts often fought with and against their Briton neighbors armed with primitive crossbows. Their guerilla style of fighting was seen as dishonorable in Celtic eyes but they were renowned for their tenacity."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Celtic Super Unit 1</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Briton Cerbyd"

-			history="Chariots were employed by the Celts of the British Isle. They were noisy, and intimidating. They were used to attack in motion by running over people, and hurling javelins. However they also were used to quickly deliver and provide escape from the battle as a transport. They were also used to quickly move men to places in the battle line that were weak and losing momentum. The wheels of the chariot were ringed with seamless iron."
+			history="The Britons were one of the last European peoples to use two-horse chariots in combat. They had two iron-rimmed wheels and a flat riding platform that typically carried a driver and a warrior. Useless as shock weapons against tightly packed troops, they were useful for running down individual soldiers and as a stable mount to launch javelins from. The heads of defeated opponents often adorned the chassis to show the warrior’s prowess."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Celtic Super Unit 2</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Celtaidd Cyfnewidiwr"

-			history="( I didn't find much on Celtic trade, other than they were active in it and traded lots of agricultural and natural resources. The image below is actually a miner, but I think he would work. I'm also not sure if a pack horse would be appropriate – a mule might be used.)"
+			history="Celtic traders were known for trafficking in many different goods. These could range from metal work and iron objects to slaves. Indeed, Britain proved to be a steady supply of slaves for the Romans. In trade the Celts often received Roman weapons, armor, and tools. Celtic traders were usually land bound, traveling on foot or by animal."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Celtic Trader</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Hyppikon"

-			history="Cavalry were made up of the upper class since they were the only ones who could afford horses. Initially they were missile troops who avoided close combat, throwing javelins and spears at enemy troops. Later on thanks to developments by the Macedonians they began to close with enemy troops to use their swords. As with all ancient horsemen the Hyppikon did not have stirrups or a saddle."
+			history="Cavalry were made up of the upper class since they were the only ones who could afford horses. Initially they were missile troops who avoided close combat, throwing javelins and spears at enemy troops. Later on thanks to developments by the Macedonians they began to close with enemy troops to use their swords. As with all ancient horsemen the hyppikon did not have stirrups or a saddle."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Hellene Basic Swordsman Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@
 			specific="Toxotes"
 			ranked="Basic (Name)"

-			history="Cretan archers were the best archers in Greece. They used a different bow with longer range."
+			history="Archers were used in Hellenistic armies to support the phalanx by splitting up enemy formations. The best Greek archers were from Crete, but mercenaries from Scythia and Asia Minor were sometimes employed. Hellenistic archers wore their quivers on their backs and the more successful ones were able to procure armor."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Hellene Basic Archer Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Thracian Peltast"

-			history="Peltasts are special units trained to overcome Archers. They carry a special shield called a pelta (from which they derived their name). The shield is deliberately curved to allow the Peltast to throw javelins faster and over a greater range."
+			history="Peltasts were javelinists originating in Thrace but their form of combat was widely copied by the Greeks, Macedonians, and Persians. Equipped with a small oval or crescent shield, a peltast would charge at enemy formations whilst hurling his javelins then fall back to avoid close combat. They wore no armor and were at a significant disadvantage against heavy infantry and cavalry, relying on their speed for survival."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Hellene Basic Javelinist Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Rhodian Sfendonistis"

-			history="Because they used lead instead of stone, the Rhodian slingers were famous in Greek armies. This increased their range and ability to deal damage."
+			history="Slingers were supporting light infantry armed with a weapon of simple manufacture but of complex usage. Rhodes was famous for its slingers, who hurled lead shots at ranges that archers could not surpass. The bullets were grooved so that they would whistle as they flew and many were inscribed with insults. Even heavy bronze armor could not withstand a sling cast."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Hellene Basic Slinger Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Athenian Gastraphetes"

-			history="Gastraphetes means Belly-bow. The predecessor of the catapult. Invented c. 399 BC in Syrakuse. There are no archaeological finds known so far, but there is a detailed description preserved in Heron, Belopoica together with an accompanying text figure. The ancient gastraphetes was powered by a composite bow."
+			history="The gastraphetes was a large crossbow braced against the soldier’s stomach, hence the name 'belly-bow'. It was used to launch darts too large for conventional bows and was used mainly in siege situations by either side. Over time it developed into the oxybeles, which is essentially a large version of the gastraphetes on a mount."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Hellene Super Unit 1</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Athenian Oxybeles"

-			history="The Oxybeles was designed in 375 BC, because the composite bow developed so fast that it grew too large and too powerful to be operated by a single human archer. The bow was placed on a tripod and a winch was fitted to draw it back. It was still made out of horn, wood and sinew, but it was bigger and more powerful then the gastrophetes bow. Because of that, the range was greater, and by placing the bow on a stable tripod, the accuracy of the shot was also greatly improved. However, the limits of the materials were nearly reached, and the engineers still wanted more power."
+			history="Oxybeles were the logical development of the gastraphetes, a large crossbow mounted on a heavy tripod. It launched heavy bolts using a bow of far greater power than its predecessor, requiring a lever operated winch system to draw it. In accuracy, range, and power it outstripped all other bolt throwers of the time."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Hellene Super Unit 2</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Poles"

-			history="The Greeks were born traders. While not as widely spread as sea trade, land trade nevertheless was practised on a reasonable scale."
+			history="Traders were private merchants who traveled from place to place buying and selling goods. Italy, Carthage, Egypt, Cyprus, Scythia, Phoenicia, and Asia Minor were all major ports of call for Hellenistic merchants. There they bought everything from grain and dates to rugs, pottery, spices, gems, and wool, even elephants from India and slaves from Scythia."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Hellene Trader</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Caballero Turdetano"

-			history="Mounted troops comprised variously 20-25% of warriors and their horses were well cared for by their owners. Horses were raised in abundant numbers in the Iberian Peninsula from the earliest of times; it was said by the Romans that either Iberia or Numidia (in North Africa) could provide on the order of 100,000 mounts per year!"
+			history="While not differing greatly from the other Iberian cavalry, the javelinists gave the horsemen the added sting of long-range attack coupled with brutal close combat. They did not use stirrups or saddles and were renowned for their horsemanship. They were highly sought after as mercenaries, albeit expendable ones."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Iberian Basic Javelinist Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Caballero Ilergete"

-			history="Mounted troops comprised variously 20-25% of warriors and their horses were well cared for by their owners. Horses were raised in abundant numbers in the Iberian Peninsula from the earliest of times; it was said by the Romans that either Iberia or Numidia (in North Africa) could provide on the order of 100,000 mounts per year!"
+			history="Armed like the light infantry, Iberian cavalry were often pursued as mercenaries, especially by the Carthaginians. Mounted on excellent horses and wielding high-grade swords they were capable of taking on heavy or light cavalry. As with all Iberians armor was scarce, but they wore the ubiquitous sinew caps made famous by the peoples of the peninsula."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Iberian Basic Swordsman Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Ciudadana Iberica"

-			history="Until the coming of and imposition of Roman Law, females were treated as being equal to men in virtually all social aspects of Iberian society."
+			history="Iberian women were privileged members of society, equal in rank to men and superior in some areas. For instance a woman would inherit her father’s wealth and then distribute it among male family members, in addition to finding wives for her brothers. Manual labor was a common activity, including farming and ditch digging, for which women received pay. Marriage and other commitments to individuals were fervently embraced by both genders. Iberian women were also capable of slaying their own children to prevent them from being captured."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Iberian Female Citizen</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Infante Lusitano"

-			history="Lusitani occupied the lands in the west central Atlantic coastal region of Iberia (central modern day Portugal) and were descended from the earliest migration of Celts, Urn field culture, whom mixed with the indigenous peoples of the region. They were probably the most warlike of the peoples of the peninsula, often fielding roving bands of young warriors whom would raid other tribes even at some distance from their homeland. They conducted at least one fully fledged war of numerous campaigns over a period of years against the Romans, under the command of their chief at the time, Viriato."
+			history="In accordance with the mobile warfare practiced by the Iberians, javelins were extremely popular, in particular an example known as the falarica. Specifically made to deliver a clump of burning grass or cloth and pitch attached to the weapon, it was used to ignite buildings or vegetation, and could be used against enemy infantry if necessary. It was later used in the Roman army for a similar purpose."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Iberian Basic Javelinist Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Infante Hondero"

-			history="The Iberian Peninsula is literally littered with stone, ceramic, and leaden sling bolts at archeological sites, so evidence suggests that slingers were a common enough unit that they are tribal generic. While it is a popular notion that Balearic Slingers, possibly the best in the ancient world, were 'Hispanic' because the islands now belong to modern day Spain, they are a Carthaginian unit relative to the times. Iberian slingers carry 3 slings like those of the Balearic."
+			history="Iberian slingers were the undisputed masters of the weapon and extracted a high toll of the enemy. Going into combat scantily clad at best, the slinger carried three slings tied around his waist, each of a different length allowing him to attack opponents from all ranges. Unlike other cultures, the Iberian slingers threw rocks instead of specially made lead shot."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Iberian Basic Slinger Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Infante Carpetano"

-			history="Carpetani were a major tribe occupying lands just south of the Celtiberi on Iberia's central upland plain, much like their neighbours to the north, and long resisted incursion by both Romans and Carthaginians in their homeland."
+			history="A long-bladed spear was a chief melee weapon of the Iberian infantry, often used after the javelins had been thrown. Typically carried by infantry know as scutarii for their long oval body shields, the spearmen would close in formation to attack their opponents. Usually lightly armored, they were quick and had a ferocious reputation."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Iberian Basic Spearman Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Infante Numantino"

-			history="Numantinos were citizens of the city of Numantia and members of the Celtiberi tribe living in the centre of the Iberian Peninsula; particularly famous for their resistance to Roman subjugation culminating in the Siege of Numantia which lasted 8 months. Rather than submit to the Roman victors, almost the entire nobility committed suicide instead of surrendering to be paraded in a Triumph and/or sold into slavery as the rest of the population subsequently was."
+			history="The Iberians were master sword-smiths and the falcata was their greatest creation. Wielded by superb swordsmen equipped with light armor and a buckler known as a caetra, they caused untold carnage. Thanks to this Iberian infantry were fast and agile unlike many of their opponents and could bite hard when they attacked. Their skill with sword and buckler were legendary, allowing them to go toe-to-toe with heavy infantry."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Iberian Basic Swordsman Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Infante Devotio"

-			history="'Devotios' (the devoted) were experienced veterans of 'foreign wars'. They served as mercenaries for other nations and having lived to return to their own where they assumed a position close to the chief or king. Their relationship was similar to that of feudal knights during the later Middle Ages."
+			history="The Devoted were war-hardened veterans of Iberian mercenaries hired out by foreign powers to fight in far-off conflicts. Fighting with and against diverse types of opponents, these men were deeply knowledgeable about various fighting styles and tactics. Once they had returned home from combat they were lavishly taken care of, rising to important positions in society."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Iberian Super Unit 1</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Caballero Devotio"

-			history="'Devotios' (the devoted) were experienced veterans of 'foreign wars'. They served as mercenaries for other nations and having lived to return to their own where they assumed a position close to the chief or king. Their relationship was similar to that of feudal knights during the later Middle Ages."
+			history="'Elite warriors known as The Devoted were adept warriors who could be either infantry or cavalry. Adding to their already considerable skill, The Devoted were renowned for the experience in foreign wars, often in the service of the Carthaginians. Considering that Iberian troops were commonly used as cannon fodder gives some idea of just how good these fierce warriors had to be in order to survive."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Iberian Super Unit 2</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Comerciante Iberico"

-			history="It is not known exactly what 'vehicles' might have been used for trading, except that the Iberians did a lot of overland trading by land amongst themselves and some with people to the north of the Pyrenees, and that wagons and carts were known and used for something; it stands to reason they would have been used in commerce."
+			history="Iberian merchants traded among themselves and had access to larger markets through Carthaginian ports such a Cartegena. Using wagons and carts, the traders also plied wares to Carthaginians, Greeks, and Romans who came to the Iberian Peninsula. Oil, wine, slaves, wool, and wheat were all exported by the Iberians, but most prized of all were its fine horses and remarkably pure iron, which made the finest swords of the ancient world."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Iberian Trader</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Iš Kidón Rakhúv"

-			history="Numidian Cavalry were known to be the fastest, most agile, in the ancient world; the riders rode without bridle or reins, steering their mount with knee pressure and body signals alone. They were the only cavalry that the Romans were unable to adequately deal with."
+			history="The Carthaginians possessed the greatest light cavalry of the ancient world in the Numidians. Tough and hardy like their mounts, the Numidians were famous for their ability to ride bareback and without bridles. Riders controlled their horses through a combination of voice commands, knee pressure, and a rope around the animals’ necks. Used mostly for pursuing defeated opponents, the Numidians’ favored weapon was a javelin that could be used for close combat if necessary."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Carthaginian Basic Javelinist Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Iš Rómah Rakhúv"

-			history="A number of the tribes, especially those of the southern Italian Peninsula, allied with Hannibal Barca during the 2nd Punic War."
+			history="The Samnites were one of the southern Italian tribes who defected to Hannibal’s army during the Second Punic War. While known for their light infantry, the Samnites produced the greatest horsemen in Italy, armed with light spears that could be thrown or used over arm. Swords were plentiful near the coast, but were not often worn in central Samnium.  Armor was plentiful, if light, including the peculiar bronze anklets worn by some Samnite horsemen."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Carthaginian Basic Spearman Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Iš Hérev Rakhúv Meguyás"

-			history="Though initially mercenaries hired by the Carthaginians, once the Carthaginian expansion was made into large areas of the Iberian Peninsula, these soldiers became levies imposed by the Carthaginian generals on their 'allies'."
+			history="Along with the Gauls, Iberians formed the Carthaginian heavy cavalry, closing with their opponents at every opportunity. Armed with long-bladed spears and short curved sabers known as falcata, the Iberians were no strangers to fighting on horseback. On many occasions they routed opposing cavalry but usually did not pursue them, preferring to remain close to the main army."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Carthaginian Basic Swordsman Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Ezrahít"

-			history="A working woman in the Carthaginian civilisation."
+			history="Unlike many ancient cities Carthage was found by a woman; Queen Dido, hailing originally from Tyre. Carthaginian women were famous for their beauty and were capable of extremely hard physical work. The records written about the Third Punic War mentioned that all citizens of Carthage, including the women, worked incessantly to manufacture weapons and prepare the city for siege. The women even cut their own hair for use in the springs of artillery pieces."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Carthaginian Female Citizen</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Qašát"

-			history="The Mauritanians are said to have supplied good archers to the armies of Carthage."
+			history="Archers were not of great importance to the Hellenized armies of the Mediterranean, but the Carthaginians fielded archers called up from Mauritania. They were armed with light bows that were able to knock down opposing troops, including heavily armored opponents such as the Romans. Mauritanians wore little if any armor, relying on their speed to escape attackers."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actions>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Iš Kidón Meguyás"

-			history="Though initially mercenaries hired by the Carthaginians, once the Carthaginian expansion was made into large areas of the Iberian Peninsula, these soldiers became levies imposed by the Carthaginian generals on their 'allies'."
+			history="While Iberians had often served as mercenaries in earlier times, after Carthage’s conquest of Spain they were often called up as levies. After the Celts they were considered the most expendable of all the troops in the Carthaginian army, used to dull the force of a charging formation. Armed with a javelin that could have a bundle of burning grass attached at the end for torching buildings, the Iberians could also wear light breastplates called pectorals in addition to their distinctive sinew caps."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actions>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Qalác"

-			history="The Balearic Slinger regiment was a levy from the islands that had been under control of Carthage from the 6th century BCE. They fired ceramic shot capable of punching through enemy shield and armour and dropping soldiers dead in their tracks. They carried 3 different slings of different lengths which were used to obtain range to target."
+			history="Levied from the Balearic Islands off Spain, these slingers proved to be the greatest the world ever produced, capable of hurling jagged rocks over distances that archers could not match. It was a Balearic slinger that heavily wounded the Roman consul Paullus at the beginning of the bloody battle at Cannae. Stones flung from slings were able to crush and puncture through armor at long ranges, be it iron or bronze."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actions>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Iš Hanít Arukáh Meguyás"

-			history="Although the Liby-Phoenician soldiers were not themselves citizens of the city of Carthage, they were levied to the armies of Carthage from those Phoenician colonies of modern-day Tunisia and Libya that had been taken over by the Carthaginians upon the demise of the mother cities in the Levant. Those town and cities were not permitted to hold standing armies of their own, having instead to rely upon Carthage for leadership and defense."
+			history="The core of the Carthaginian army was made up of Liby-Phoenicians, Africans with Phoenician ancestors. The wealthy residents of Carthage recruited the non-citizen Liby-Phoenicians as heavy infantry, fighting in the Macedonian phalanx armed with the long sarissa. Armor could range from chain mail hauberks to bronze cuirasses and helmets often included the latest Hellenistic types. Although armed with a shield and a sword, Carthaginian swordsmen were woefully ill-trained compared to their Roman or Iberian counterparts in fencing."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actions>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Iš Hérev Sakhír"

-			history="Celts served as mercenaries in Carthaginian armies from the earliest times."
+			history="Hannibal hired Celtic mercenaries when he invaded Italy in 218 BC, recruited from the Gallic tribesmen in the northern third of the country. Fierce and physically imposing thanks to their height the Celtic soldiers attacked their opponents with swords and spears in a solid wave. They were capable of changing formations and despite their usual lack of body armor they were quite capable of hacking down their opponents."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actions>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Qaçín"

-			history="Sacred Band represented the group of Carthaginian Citizens that were especially trained to become the officers over all components of the army."
+			history="The Sacred Band was a group of elite troops dedicated to the service of Tanit, patron goddess of Carthage. Wearing distinctive white linothorax cuirasses and bronze helmets with a black band above the forehead they fought as an elite cavalry formation. In addition to providing crack troops, the unit trained Carthaginians aspiring to command Punic mercenary armies. Specially picked troops carried the unit standard emblazoned with the goddess’ symbols into battle."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Carthaginian Super Unit 1</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Pil Qrav"

-			history="The North African Forest Elephant, smaller than the Indian elephant and now extinct, was captured and trained by the Carthaginians as a 'terror weapon'."
+			history="By far the most famous of Carthaginian weapons was the small, ugly, and now extinct, North African forest elephants. Going into battle without a war tower carrying only a driver, Carthaginian war elephants were used as terror weapons: horses could not stand their smell, inexperienced troops were frightened, and the havoc they could cause was immense. Yet by the time of the Second Punic War elephants were at the end of their time. Armies had learned the weaknesses of the giant beasts, specifically how to hamstring and confuse them. More often than not a war elephant could be just as dangerous to its own side as the enemy."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Carthaginian Super Unit 2</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Sohér"

-			history="A trader in the Carthaginian civilisation."
+			history="Of all the merchants of the ancient world, the Carthaginians were the most traveled. Their vast fleet of trading ships went as far as Britain and down the coast of West Africa. Culturally sensitive, the Carthaginians would make allowances for the particular customs of their trading partners, some transactions taking place without direct contact or negotiation. Thanks to the long voyages of Carthaginian merchants much territory was explored and even colonized."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Carthaginian Trader</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Chaharcharkhe Pars"

-			history="Chariots were the bulwark of most Middle Eastern armies during the latter part of the II millennium BC and retain their importance later on as elite units. The Persians learnt to use chariots from the Assyrians and Babylonians and employed them on several occasions. The introduction of scythes made the chariots very effective against enemy infantry. Their expensive equipment, however, meant that they were restricted to noblemen only and hence were difficult to amass."
+			history="Chariots were obsolete by the 5th and 4th centuries BC, but they were viewed as symbols of rank and class, hence their continued deployment on the battlefield in extremely limited roles well after their obsolescence. The crew was made up of an archer and a driver who rode in an armored car equipped with scythe-like blades underneath the chassis and the axels themselves sported a pair of the deadly knives."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Basic Archer Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Asabari Madi"

-			history="The Mede Light Horse was the most widely used type of cavalry by the Persians, since Persian (and Median) boys were taught how to use a bow and ride a horse from a very early age. It was first introduced by the Median kings and was vital in the Median victory over the mighty Assyrians."
+			history="Just as the archers were the rock of the Persian infantry, the Persian cavalry was formed around the light cavalryman, or Asabari. Armed with javelins for long-ranged combat or close-quarter fighting, Asabari were also equipped with swords and axes. Since they were recruited from the upper classes many wore armor and helmets and their horses could also be fitted with light armor."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Basic Javelinist Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Aspe Zerehdar Balkhi"

-			history="Cataphracts were the crushing blow of the Persian cavalry. They smashed the enemy after the Asabari and infantry missile troops had loosened up the enemy formation with arrows and javelins. This was also the first major appearance of shock cavalry."
+			history="Heavily armed lancers later known as cataphracts were first developed by the Sarmatians from Central Asia. The Persians picked up the technique from other eastern peoples like the Massagetae and the Bactrians. Featuring a heavily armored rider armed with a long lance and even an armored horse, the Cataphracts were the first cavalry to physically crash into their opponents, a considerable feat when one knows that they rode without stirrups."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Basic Spearman Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Usubari Tazi"

-			history="Camelry were used early on very successfully by Cyrus the Great. In the war with the Lydian king Croesus at the battle of Sardes in 546 BC, for instance, camelry was instrumental in disposing of the fearful Lydian Heavy Cavalry."
+			history="Camel mounted cavalry were widespread among the Arabs levied into the Persian army, armed with swords and axes to bows and spears. They could move very quickly across all terrain and they were quite effective against traditional horse-mounted cavalry as the horses themselves could not stand the smell of camels. Camels were also seen in Persian armies deployed by the Bactrians from Central Asia, who used them as platforms for archers."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Basic Swordsman Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Banu Miyanrudani"

-			history="A Mesopotamian working woman."
+			history="Persian women were fairly powerful during the reign of the Achaemenids, having substantial control over their future. A husband was not able to pawn his wife off to cover debts, nor was did he have control of her possessions. Persian women owned property and were quite active in their management of it, which could include female-induced divorce. Veiling had a long tradition in ancient Persia although it was only a sign of modesty and wealth among well-to-do women with none of the modern implications."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Female Citizen</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Kamandar Kappadoki"

-			history="Owing to the predominately mountainous terrain of Asia Minor, the many peoples living there specialised in using ranged weapons (javelins and arrows). Cappadocians, Pisidians, Cilicians and others were regularly levied and served in the Imperial Army."
+			history="Archers were the core of the Persian infantry, often going into battle with spearmen equipped with spara, whom they heavily outnumbered. Although powerful, the Persian recurved bow was cursed with light arrows that had trouble piercing the armor of heavily armed opponents. But the huge numbers loosed in each volley were more than enough to alarm even the most armored enemy."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Basic Archer Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Zhupinandaz Frighi"

-			history="The Phrygians were used by the Persians and Diadochi monarchs alike as excellent foot javelinists. They were certainly the strongest people in Asia Minor in Persia's time. Even later, during the Diadochi period, Phrygia made up the base of Antigonus' great Empire."
+			history="Javelin throwers were an important arm of the Persian infantry, giving added close range punch to the archers and able to close with the enemy if necessary. Many javelinists were recruited from the peoples of Asia Minor, including the Phrygians, who fought with hide shields and what armor they could find. In their day they were rivaled in skill by only the Thracian peltasts."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Basic Javelinist Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Neyzedar Madi"

-			history="Mede Spearmen comprised the main infantry regiment in the Median Empire. They also remained of very high importance during the Achaemenid period, ranking second only to the Immortals. They were widely used throughout the Empire, as illustrated by the fact that even Ionian cities under Persian rule were guarded by Median battalions."
+			history="The Medes were renowned soldiers, creating an empire that predated that of the Achaemenid Persians. In combat they fought with short spears counterweighted with bronze and used large wicker shields known as spara. Secondary weapons ranged from axes known as sagaris to daggers and short swords, but armor was rare, limited to scale or linen when procured."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Basic Spearman Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Amrtaka Pars"

-			history="he Immortals (Amrtaka) were an elite corpus of 10,000 men ('myrias' in Greek), which was made up of young Persian noblemen. They got their name from the fact that their number remained the same during battle (whenever a soldier died, he was instantly substituted)."
+			history="The Amrtaka (or, as they are more commonly known, Immortals) were the elite of the Persian army, handsomely equipped with armor and weapons, including swords which were rare weapons in the normal ranks. A unit of 10,000 men, their number was always kept to full strength whenever a man was killed or wounded, resulting in their nickname. They were ferocious fighters and well respected."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Super Unit 1</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Pil Jangi Hendi"

-			history="Persian Elephants were saddled, and fed rice wine before a battle to make them more aggressive. The Persians did not use elephants very often, while the Carthaginians constructed huge stables harbouring up to 300 beasts at Carthage. The Seleucids also employed elephants more widely."
+			history="Elephants were rare sights in Persian armies but they were used and their effect on the battlefield could not be ignored. As their tusks and feet physically attacked the enemy, archers and javelin throwers launched projectiles from atop the animal’s back. While huge, they could be just as much a threat to their own side and could be easily hamstrung. But their ability to stop a full-blown cavalry charge when in a line made up for any questions of effectiveness."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Super Unit 2</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Tamkarum Arami"

-			history="The Aramaeans settled in the Fertile Crescent in X century BC and became very successful merchants by land. Aramaic gradually replaced Akkadian as the spoken language of the Middle East. Eventually most Achaemenid written administration was written in this language."
+			history="Merchants were the working corps of the Persian economy, moving goods from one end of the vast empire to the other. Commodities included linen, carpets, perfume, cotton, salt, fruit, and even pearls. Thanks to the Aramaeans, the main language of Mesopotamia and in all directions from it was Aramaic, making trade simple. The language was eventually taken on as the official language of the Empire."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Persian Trader</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Equite"

-			history="Before the Marian reform, only the wealthy could serve in the cavalry. Notwithstanding, it has always paled in comparison with Roman infantry. Initially, it was comprised of 300 equites divided in 10 turmae. From the middle of II c. BC onward, Rome started relying on auxiliary cavalry of Thracians, Numidians, Gauls and Germans."
+			history="Equites were the elite of Roman society, the added wealth stemming from that position enabling them to obtain horses and therefore serve as cavalry. They were formed into units of 30, known as turmae, armored in chain mail and often wearing fashionable Hellenistic helmets. They used a spear for throwing or over arm stabbing as well as a shield and sword for close combat."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Roman Basic Spearman Cavalry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Matrona Romana"

-			history="Along with men, Roman women (clarae feminae) also played an important part in politics. The outstanding examples were Octavia, sister of Augustus and wife of Mark Antony, Livia, wife of Augustus and mother of Tiberius, and Agrippina, niece and wife of Claudius and mother of Nero."
+			history="Roman women in the Republic were in a similar state as their Greek counterparts. When a Roman woman married their dowry and property passed to their father-in-law, while she herself became the property of her husband. Their job was to raise the children and helping in farm work or running the family business. It was a sign of affluence when a man’s wife did not have to work."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Roman Female Citizen</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Principe"

-			history="Principi were the second line of heavy infantry. Older than the Hastati, but were otherwise identical in appearance and armament except that the Principi had better armor. They would enter the combat once the Hastati had worn down the enemy, throwing their pilum into the enemy ranks before charging in with swords."
+			history="The principi were the second line of heavy infantry in the Republican Roman army. Exactly identical in equipment and fighting methods to the hastati, they differed only in age, being slightly older. As a result they could often afford slightly better arms, including chain mail hauberks known as lorica hamata. Like all Roman heavy infantry they decorated their helmets with feathers and horsehair crests in the Italian fashion."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Roman Basic Javelinist Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Ballearic Slinger"

-			history="According to the Servian Reform, the poorest citizens (V class), who could not afford to own sophisticated weaponry, became slingers. As Roman power and territory grew, this unit disappeared almost completely; allied Ballearic Slingers, renowned for their skill, were used instead."
+			history="Slingers were users of one of the simplest weapons in existence, but one that required incredible skill. Capable of punching through armor, the stones hurled from the sling had greater range than even the bow. By the time of the Punic Wars, Roman slingers were either mercenaries or provided by allies."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Roman Basic Slinger Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Triarus"

-			history="The Triari were veterans of military service, usually in their 30s or 40s, with money to afford the best weapons and equipment. They made up the third line of heavy infantry, armed with stabbing spears. If the Hastati and Principi could not defeat the enemy, the Triari would come forward and finish them off. Usually they didn't have to fight. "
+			history="The Triarii were the third line of heavy infantry in the Republican Roman army. Made up of the veterans from previous campaigns, they often possessed the most fashionable arms and armor. Armed with a spear and gladius, the Triarii usually did not fight unless the battle was going poorly or enemy forces required the use of a spear to fend them off. In many cases the Tirarii were left at the camp instead of marching out with the rest of the army."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Roman Basic Spearman Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Hastatus"

-			history="The Hastati were young men over 20 years old who made up the first line of heavy infantry in the Punic War era Republican army. Initially they threw pilum at the enemy and then engaged the enemy with swords. They were the first heavy Roman troops to engage in a battle. Usually they had enough money to purchase cheaper armor."
+			history="The hastati were the first line of heavy infantry in the early Republican Roman army. They used pila and gladii as their main weapons, throwing the former into the enemy formation and then closing with the sword. For defence they used a large shield called a scutum and wore the best armor they could afford. Hastati were recruited from the young men of Rome, a small part of the 700,000 troops Rome could bring to bear against its opponents."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Roman Basic Swordsman Infantry</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Centurio"

-			history="The Centurion was a commander of a unit of 100 legionaries called centuriae. Only the bravest and most experienced troops could become centurions; having attained that position they were supposed to lead their troops by personal example as well as orders."
+			history="The Centurio was the commander of a century of 80 men, 10 squads or contubernium of 8 men. To attain the position a man would have had to show great personal bravery, initiative, and authority. Republican centurions were armed just as their men, although their armor could be substantially more flamboyant due to their increased social position. Unlike later centurions, in the pre-Marian army they were elected by their fellow soldiers, who considered their past actions."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Roman Super Unit 1</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Decurio"

-			history=" A Decurion was a cavalry officer who commanded 30 men in a turmae, or file. They were appointed by the tribunes and used Greek style helmets with Roman armor."
+			history="Decurions each commanded a cavalry squad of ten Equites, three of which made up a turmae. They wore either Greek-style armor or Roman chain mail hauberks split at the thigh to allow for riding. Armed with a spear for throwing or stabbing, they would use a gladius for close combat. A round shield called a parma was a major source of protection once the heavy Roman horseman had closed with their opponents."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Roman Super Unit 2</Actor>
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@

 			specific="Plebean Merchant"

-			history="Since the start of the Roman Republic, the plebeans dedicated themselves to commerce, while patricians owned and cultivated the land. Trading was considered negatively, so patricians tried to avoid it, or made some of their plebean clients trade, using their clients' names."
+			history="Plebians were the poor class in Roman society, underneath the patricians, often carrying out much local trading and business. While patricians financed large business ventures plebian merchants did the actual work. They traded far and wide, from Iberia to Syria, buying and selling everything from salt to wool to horses to metals to glass to slaves. Rome’s extensive network of roads within Italy, many ports, and central location within the Mediterranean made it an ideal place to do business."
 		/>
 	</Traits>
 	<Actor>Roman Trader</Actor>