How long did ancient Athenian soldiers serve?

Answer 1

Ancient Athenian soldiers, known as hoplites, typically served in the military from the ages of 18 to 60. The length of service varied depending on the specific military campaign or conflict they were involved in. Athenian soldiers were expected to serve in the military as part of their civic duty to defend the city-state of Athens.

Answer 2

The Greek military age was 18 to 60, all of whom were required to turn out in defence of their city. Generally, the age for expeditionary forces was 20 to 45. They were called out as required (and had to turn up with three days rations) and served until the battle or campaign was over, when they returned to their normal occupations, attending periodic training drills.

This applied to people in the cavalry and hoplite (armoured warrior) classes. Those below this were coopted as required as light infantry with bows, javelins and rocks. Later, mercenaries progressively replaced the militias where a leader, city or confederation could afford to pay them.

Answer 3

The amount of time served was twenty-five years, but only for legionaries, who were volunteers and received a large retirement pension and farm land. Conscripted soldiers did not have to serve as long, but did not get any benefits after leaving.

Answer 4

They are supposed to serve from ages 17-60 .