Caring for the Poor (Military Solicitude) in Ancient Hellas and in the Roman Empire

Abstract

The aim of the study is to show the historical development of the care for the poor especially military solicitude from the Ancient Near East to the Ancient Hellas and the Roman Empire. This paper presents the basic functions of the poor law systems (military solicitude), including the similarities of and differences between their in-kind benefits and pension payments and also outlines the prominent roles of the ancient associations and foundations. The article could be useful for all those who want to have a general overview of the disabled veteran’s, widow’s and orphan’s pensions and benefits.