Ross Cowan


Ross Cowan is a British historian and author specialising in Roman military history.

Education and career

Cowan studied at the University of Glasgow, completing an MA in classical civilisation in 1997 and a PhD in history in 2003. His doctoral thesis was on the Praetorian Guard and Legio II Parthica, entitled Aspects of the Severan Field Army AD 193–238.
Since earning his PhD Cowan has been an independent scholar, writing books on Roman military history for Osprey Publishing, Greenhill Books, Pen & Sword Books and Frontline Books. He is a contributor to Ad Familiares, Ancient Egypt, Ancient History, Ancient Warfare, Archäologisches Korrespondenzblatt, BMCR, Classics Ireland, Historia, Medieval Warfare, Military History Monthly and Military Illustrated.
Cowan's research focuses on courage, heroism, glory and warrior culture in the Roman military. Cowan has noted his appreciation of heroic fantasy author David Gemmell. Cowan dedicated his 2007 work, , to the memory of Gemmell.

Publications

Books
Select Articles
Hoplites
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Arms & armour and military organisation in pre-Roman Italy:
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  • . Revised version .
Battle Tactics
Centurions
Praetorian Guard
Roman Britain and the Ninth Legion
Roman Warriors and Single Combat
War Cries and Weapons Clashing
Later Roman Army
Various Roman Military
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Charioteers
Scottish Warfare
Guitar Heroes
Photography
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