Description
The Lusitani were renowned for their skill in guerrilla warfare and bravery in battle. Both men and women took part in a type of tribal dancing which helped to strengthen their legs. This was undoubtedly a contributing factor to the nimbleness and agility displayed by their warriors. During the ‘Fiery War’ between the Lusitanian chief, Viriathus, and Rome the ferocity of the women of Lusitania was recorded by the Roman Sextus Junius Brutus. During the Roman pursuit of the rebel leader he observed that women were often found defending their settlements: “fighting and perishing in company with the men with such bravery that they uttered no cry even in the midst of slaughter”.
