The Roman gladiators were a group of highly trained people who fought against other gladiators and animals in the Roman coliseums. Most of the gladiators were slaves captured from other countries that Rome fought against. Once Rome conquered their lands, the gladiators were taken prisoner and returned to Rome. Once in Rome, they went to the Ludus Gladiatorius, or gladiator school, for training. Training was supervised by a lanista, or "butcher", who frequently abused the gladiators, both physically and mentally, usually with a whip. Many thought gladiators were just slaves. However, criminals, debtors and other rule breakers sentenced to death were also sent to the ludus gladiatorius. Gladiators were trained based on the physical attributes and skills they possessed. There were different types of gladiators. The Samnite was a gladiator who carried a sword, a long shield and a visored helmet. The retaire carried a trident, used a net for trapping, and wore armor for his throwing arm. The other type of gladiator, the myrmillo, carried a dagger and shield and was protected by leg bands and a leather belt. At the Colosseum, the gladiators always fought first, early in the morning. For obvious reasons, the gladiators were worried about how the lanista would evaluate their respective performances and what he would do if they didn't perform well. After those convicted during the fight were killed, fights took place against animals and criminals. At the end of the day, the gladiators fought again, but this time they fought to the death. Gladiators could appeal to the crowd for mercy, but they were unlikely to get it, as many crowds were not merciful. Not all gladiators died in battle, in fact, quite a few...... middle of paper ......ship and allowed for a deeper exploration of faith. Polytheistic religions did not allow for a personal relationship between their followers and their gods, and the religion was not a way of life or a faith, it was simply a belief. Another aspect of Christianity that appealed greatly to people was that it appealed to everyone, regardless of social status or class, and preached eternal life for all. While many people have embraced this message; just as many people despised him. The apostles who preached Jesus' message were about as well received as Jesus. Many Christians were martyred or imprisoned, including St. Peter, the first pope, and many other followers of Jesus. In the Holy Land, the Romans killed many Jews and destroyed the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, leaving only the Western Wall. The Western Wall, or “Wailing Wall,” is today the holiest sanctuary in Jerusalem.