[6][7] This organization probably originated from previous Greek military spies and scouts.
There are references to a Roman scouting agency operating during the Samnite Wars and the speculatores being employed during the Roman war with the Aequi.
[8] Emperor Augustus reformed the Roman communications system.
[15] As bodyguards, they were tasked with clearing the emperor's pathway of crowds.
[9] The speculatores were trained by an official known as a centurio exercitator to become skilled in fighting, horseriding, parading, and escorting.