The Roman method of aristocratic classification had hitherto prevailed also within the legion.

Each of the four divisions of the -velites-, the -hastati-, the -principes-, and the -triarii---or, as we may say, the vanguard, the first, second, and third line--had hitherto possessed its special qualification for service, as respected property or age, and in great part also its distinctive equipment; each had its definite place once for all assigned in the order of battle; each had its definite military rank and its own standard.

All these distinctions were now superseded.
Any one admitted as a legionary at all needed no further qualification in order to serve in any division; the discretion of the officers alone decided as to his place.

All distinctions of armour were set aside, and consequently all recruits were uniformly trained.

Connected, doubtless, with this change were the various improvements which Marius introduced in the armament, the carrying of the baggage, and similar matters, and which furnish an honourable evidence of his insight into the practical details of the business of war and of his care for his soldiers; and more especially the new method of drill devised by Publius Rutilius Rufus (consul 649) the comrade of Marius in the African war.