What size army unit does a maniple represent?

A maniple in the context of the Roman military represents an army unit of approximately 120 soldiers. This organizational structure was part of the Roman legion's development during the late Republic period, which aimed to improve flexibility on the battlefield compared to the earlier phalanx formation. The maniple was a tactical unit that allowed for greater maneuverability, and soldiers were arranged in a way that could adapt to various combat situations.

The Roman legion typically consisted of multiple maniples, and this division was crucial in allowing for quick rearrangement and effective command during conflicts. The size of the maniple distinguished it from other military formations, such as the larger cohort, which could contain around 480 men, further illustrating its role in the overall structure and effectiveness of the Roman military.