Caesar s Art of War:

Transcription

1 Caesar s Art of War: A Graphic Portfolio of Battlefields and Tactics in the Commentarii de Bello Gallico. Antonio M. Salinas Dr. James P. Holoka April 18, 2005 Eastern Michigan University

2 Unit Symbol Description Unit Symbol Map Legend Description Unit Symbol Description Roman army; 2 or more legions Enemy (Gallic, German, Briton) Army Auxiliary forces Roman legion Enemy forces Auxiliary cavalry 10 Roman legion with unit ID Enemy cavalry Auxiliary archers Roman cohort Enemy archers Auxiliary slingers Roman Detachment Enemy chariots I: 6 Book and chapter identifier Roman command element Enemy command element Contact between opposing forces Roman cavalry Enemy forces Roman forces Enemy camp Roman camp Enemy siege works Roman siege works Enemy ship Roman ship

3 War with the Helvetii

4 Saone Jura Range Rhone Helvetii I: 1 2

5 Helvetii plan to move west. Two avenues of approach: #1 NW between Jura and Rhone Poor avenue of approach, restricted to a single track. #2 Cross via Roman land, where the Rhone is fordable. Request permission from Allbroges with the intent to cross bridge at Geneva. #2 Accepted: Movement on 28 March 58 B.C. OBJ #1 #2 I: 6

6 Caesar moves the 10 th north and burns the bridge at Geneva Helvetii are not permitted to cross the bridge. Caesar reschedules the meeting on Apr 13 th, 58 BCE. 10 I: 7

7 Caesar builds a wall during the period between meetings: 16 feet x19 miles, including pickets. 13 Apr : Caesar prevents the Helvetii from crossing at Geneva Helvetii make failed attempts at crossing the Rhone utilizing hastily joined craft. Roman fortifications and rapid troop concentrations fend off all attacks. 4. Caesar moves to Rome to raise reinforcements. The legate, Titus Labienus in temporary command. xxxx I: 7-10

8 Helvetii gain permission from the Aedui to cross through the land of the Sequani. Caesar raises additional legions and heads north west with additional legions from Aquileia (3 legions), as well as two newly recruited legions. Roman forces skirmish with Ceutrones, Graioceli and Caturiges. 4. The Helvetii ravaged the land of both the Allobroges and the Ambarri. Both ask for Caesar s aid. Caesar acts in defense of these allies I: 9-11

9 SPQR Helvetii in the process of crossing the Saone. The Romans realize that ¾ of their forces are across. Tigurine Canton,while laden with baggage, is attacked by three legions. Many casualties are inflicted on the Gauls. I: 12

10 4. Romans cross the Saone in one day. Romans engage in a cavalry harassment operation with 4,000 auxiliaries. However they engage on unfavorable ground and have to withdraw, suffering minor casualties. Romans pursued for fifteen days, leaving only 5-6 miles in between camps. 4. The Romans learn that the Helvetii are camped under a hill. I: 13-14

11 A failed sneak attack Roman patrols indicate the ascent from the rear of the hill is easy. Titus Labienus s takes the hill with two legions and auxiliary cavalry. He waits for a synchronized attack by Caesar. Considius, attached to the cavalry, gives Caesar a faulty report. He stated that the hill was in the hands of the Helvetii. Caesar redeploys to the nearest hill and forms up. 4. Helvetii march out. 5. Romans follow at a three mile interval between the camps. I: 21-22

12 Bibracte Expecting rations in two days, Caesar moves to secure his commissary at Bibracte. Helvetii interpret Roman movement as fear and harass the Roman rear. Caesar becomes aware of the situation and deploys on a hill. I: 23

13 Battle of the Bibracte hills. Caesar orders his 2 raw legions and all auxiliaries to entrench He deploys four veteran Legions in triple line on the hill slope. Cavalry is sent to meet the incoming enemy Helvetii form a dense phalanx and repulse the Roman cavalry. They begin a frontal assault on the Roman line. Caesar orders his personal horses away in order to equalize his own risk. He rallies his troops and joins the fight. 4. Front lines meet. The Roman pilum has a devastating effect on the lines of the Helvetii, rendering their shields useless. Many of enemy drop their shields and charge blindly into the Roman lines. 5. Helvetii make a orderly withdrawal to a hill one mile away; Romans pursue ,000 Boii and Tulingi attempt to outflank the Roman lines. 7. The Gauls who had retreated renew their counterattack on the Roman front line. 8. Romans counter: the 2 nd line forms up with the first line to take on the frontal attack. The third line wheels and holds the right flank. 9. Helvetian forces make an orderly withdrawal back to their hill I: 24-26

14 Battle of the Bibracte hills. Helvetian forces build a stockade out of their wagons and use spears and other throwing weapons against the Romans. After a long fight, the Romans take the camp. 130,000 Helvetii survive and march out in the direction of the Lingones. The Romans remain for 3 days to attend to both the wounded and the dead. I: 26

15 Lingones Bibracte Original numbers: Helvetii: 263,000 Tulingi: 36,000 Latobrigi: 14,000 Rauraci: 23,000 Boii: 22,000 Able to carry arms: 92,000 Total: 368,000 Returning home: 110,000 Helvetii move toward the Lingones Caesar warns the Lingones against aiding the Helvetii. Helvetii surrender to Caesar and are sent back to their land. I: 26-29

16 War with the Germans

17 Caesar sits in a secret council with Gallic chieftains. Diviciacus is the spokesman. Caesar was informed of the ongoing conflict between the Aedui and the Arverni. The Aedui hire the Suebi. At first only 15,000 Suebi (Germans) cross. However they increased their numbers to 120,000 Both the Sequani and Aedui lose the battle of Admagetobrigia vs. King Ariovistus. The Gauls beg Caesar to help stop oppression. Caesar sends representatives to King Ariovistus. His ultimatum: No additional German troops moved across the Rhine, restoration of hostages to Aedui and Sequani. Ariovistus, shocked at the Roman request, answers arrogantly. Bibracte Germans I: 30-36

18 Caesar learns that 100 cantons of Suebi are standing by to cross the Rhine. Caesar decides to move toward Ariovistus before these 2 forces can combine. On day 3 of the march Caesar decides to establish a garrison at Vesontio, the largest city of the Sequani. Vesontio Bibracte Germans Suebi I: 37-38

19 Vesontio I: yds

20 Caesar s army within twenty-four miles of Ariovistus, who arranges for a meeting on a hill between camps. Vesontio Bibracte I: 42

21 Caesar meets with Ariovistus. 10 II 200 paces 200 paces Both men approach a hill equal equidistant from their camps, bringing a cavalry unit as escort. Caesar meets with Ariovistus, each bringing ten horsemen as bodyguard. Negotiations do not go well. German cavalry harass the mounted 10 th legion. Caesar restrains his forces and returns to camp. I: 42-46

22 I: Battle of the Rhine. Ariovistus moves his army within six miles of the Roman camp. Ariovistus moves 2 miles past the Roman camp in an effort to cut off supply lines. Caesar deploys out side his camp in battle order to offer battle for 5 days. 4. Ariovistus s infantry is kept in camp, but daily cavalry battles ensue.

23 Germans deploy 6,000 cavalry and 6,000 infantry hand picked as cavalry escorts. Infantry capable of either, protecting wounded troops or covering retreats. Infantry also capable of hitching rides during an advance or retreat by hanging on to the manes of horses. I : 48

24 Battle of the Rhine Caesar moves the majority of forces in triple line 600 paces from the enemy camp in order to reopen his supply lines. The first two lines remain at the ready, while the third constructs a camp. The Germans send out 16,000 light infantry and all cavalry to frighten the Romans. 4. Caesar leaves two legions and some auxiliaries at the smaller camp. The remaining four legions and auxiliaries return to the larger camp. I: 49

25 Battle of the Rhine. Caesar forms up outside the larger camp and invites the Germans to battle. The Germans do not attack the main camp and Caesar pulls back by noon. Germans attack lesser camp and withdraw at sunset. German morale low due to the divinations of the matrons. I: 50

26 Battle of the Rhine. GERMAN ORDER OF BATTLE Harudes 4. Vangiones 7. Suebi Marcomani 5. Nemetes Triboci 6. Sedusii N V M S S T H Caesar posts all auxiliaries in front of the smaller camp. Caesar forms his forces in a triple line and advances toward the German camp. Germans deploy by tribe, surrounding their lines with wagons filled with their women to cut off any hope of retreat. I: 51

27 5. Rhine Battle of the Rhine. Romans charge! The Germans close the gap too quickly for the Romans to employ their pila. Close quarter fighting. The German left wing begins to fall back. Roman right wing begins to fall back. 4. Publius Crassus, the commander of the cavalry, notices the Roman right falling, orders the third line into battle. 5. Germans in full retreat five miles to the Rhine. Ariovistus escapes, leaving behind two dead wives. 6. Roman cavalry rounds up and eliminates any Germans not lucky enough to make it across the river. I: 52-53

28 Caesar s army retires early to winter cantonments amongst the Sequani. Caesar himself heads to Cisalpine Gaul. Vesontio Bibracte I: 52-54

29 Belgians Bibracte Rumor of the Belgians conspiring to attack Roman forces had spread through Gaul. Caesar heads north with two new legions, the 13 th and 14 th,t o join the main army. The Remi pledge their assistance II: 1-3

30 The Remi s Intel on enemy numbers. Bellovaci: 100,000 Suessiones: Nervii: Atrebates: Ambioni: Morini: Menapii: Morini: Menapi: 50,000 50,000 15,000 10,000 25,000 7,000 25,000 7,000 II: 4

31 Caesar stresses the need to divide/conquer against such numbers. 4. Bibrax Aisne river Bibracte Caesar learns that the Bellovaci are moving south. He decides to move his army across the Aisne, while leaving a small camp to the south of the river. Bellovaci attack the town of Bibrax. 4. Aedui are sent north to attack the territory of the Bellovaci. II: 5

32 Attack on Bibrax and Belgian tactics. Belgians surround the wall and clear its defenders off the wall by throwing stones. Belgians form a tortoise with their shields. Undermining attempts are made. II: 6

33 Bibrax Reman Iccius sends word that he cannot hold out without reinforcements. Ceasars sends Numidian and Cretan archers and Balearic slinger to aid the besieged city. Belgian forces move south toward Caesar s camp. They encamp only 2 miles away from the Roman camp. The smoke from their campfires indicated that their camp is eight miles wide. II: 7

34 Battle of the Aisne river. Marsh Aisne Caesar builds trenches 400 feet long to prevent an enemy flanking. Artillery also stationed in the trenches to deter enemy attacks. Caesar avoids an all out battle, because he largely outnumber. However he tests the enemy with daily cavalry skirmishes. II: 8-9

35 Battle of the Aisne river. 6. Marsh Aisne 5. Caesar forms up for battle: leaves 2 raw legions in camp and deploys the remaining 6. Each side waits to see who will cross the marsh first. Neither moves. Cavalry engagement ensues -- Roman victory. Caesar returns to camp. 4. Suessiones drive south for the river in effort to take the small camp and cut Caesar off from supplies. 5. Caesar sends all of the cavalry, light-armed Numidians, archers, and slingers across the bridge. The kill any Gaul that crossed the river. 6. The Belgians hold a council and decide to return home to counter the Aeduan attacks. II: 9-10

36 Belgians bug out after the Aisne defeat Belgians leave in great disorder. Romans hesitate at first, assessing an ambush. Finally, Caesar sends all the cavalry and 3 legions in pursuit. Belgian rear halts and attempts to hold off the Roman pursuit unsuccessfully. 4. Belgians believe that their rear is covered. They broke ranks and ran for safety. 5. Romans launch an attack in pursuit and return to camp at sunset. II: 11

37 Noviodunum Bibrax Bibracte Caesar moves to the town of Noviodunum. II: 12

38 Surrender of the Suessiones 4. SPQR Noviodunum Romans attempt a hasty attack on an apparently unfortified city. The city s defenses proved to be much more formidable than anticipated. The Romans encamp and begin constructing towers and a ramp. During the first night, the defeated Suessiones gathered near the city. 4. The Gauls surrender due to the psychological shock of the speed that the Romans could both construct and move such towers. II: 12

39 Ambiani Bellovaci 5. Nervii Noviodunum Sambre river Bibrax Bibracte Caesar moves to the Bellovaci and Ambiani. Both surrender. Nervii outraged at the surrendering. 4. Caesar next moves to the country of the Nervii. 5. The Nervii hold a position 10 miles north of the Sambre. 6. During Caesar s march, Gallic spies infiltrate his column and report to the Nervii a perceived weakness. II: 15-17

40 OBJ Assessed Roman Weakness. baggage baggage Gallic spies indicate that the massed baggage moves between the individual legions. The Nervii use improvised sapling walls to block the movement of cavalry and obstruct line of sight. The Nervii anticipate their attack would be an unbeatable ambush. The Gauls expect an easy victory to attack the first legion arriving at the campsite, for the Romans are laden with baggage and the other legions are too far off to offer assistance. baggage baggage II: 17

41 Battle of the Sambre. 2 hills of equal grade facing one another. Depth of the Sambre only 3 feet. The main enemy force lies concealed at the top of the hill opposite of the Roman camp. They wait for the time to ambush as per their intelligence. Only a few cavalry posts visible to the Romans. Caesar moves his forces in an unexpected manner. II: 18

42 Roman marching order when contact is imminent. Six veteran legions advance lightly armed. The baggage train for the entire army follows the forward element. The 2 newly recruited legions serve as the rear guard. Baggage Train II: 19

43 Battle of the Sambre. Baggage Train Caesar sends all the cavalry, slingers, and archers to attack the exposed cavalry. The Gauls withdraw to the protection of wooded areas and try a brief counter attack. Roman forces do not purse beyond the open ground. The six advance legions begin to entrench. The Gauls charge from their concealed position as soon as the Roman baggage train comes into view. Roman cavalry, archers, and slingers are scattered from the field. II: 19

44 Chaotic counters at the Sambre Baggage Train The Atrebates charge the 9 th and 10 th legions. Utilizing pila, the legions counterattack, pursue, and drive the Gauls across the river. The Viromandui attack the 11 th and 8 th legions. The Gauls are pushed to the river and routed. All the Nervii charge through the unprotected gap in the Roman front and began to outflank the isolated 12 th and 7 th legions. 4. Sutlers stationed at the rear of the camp, charge forward to collect booty-as they thought the victory had been achieved. After viewing the Nervii in the Roman camp, they flee the field. 5. Roman cavalry attacks once more and is repulsed. 6. Both the baggage train and auxiliary cavalry see the Nervii in the Roman camp and flee. II: 20-24

45 8 11 Chaotic counters at the Sambre Baggage Train Caesar moves from the 10th to the 12th legions and personally takes part in the fight to rally his men. Caesar orders the nearby legions to move up gradually and wheel in the face of the enemy to attack on all sides. The 10th legion joins the Roman encirclement. 4. The 13th and 14th legion (baggage train guard) move up and join the attack. 5. The sutlers, who formerly fell back, joined the attack. 6. Roman cavalry fight to regain their honor and prestige. II: 25-27

46 ROMAN VICTORY The battle almost erases the race of the Nervii. The senate of the Nervii goes from 600 to Of men able to bear arms: From 60,000 to 500. II: 28

47 Aduatuci Sambre river Noviodunum Bibrax Bibracte Caesar moves against the Aduatuci. The Aduatuci plan to reinforce the Nervii, but fall back to a single stronghold after hearing of the massacre oft the Nervii. II: 28

48 Vs. the Adatuci 200 yards Adatuci The Aduatuci fortress presents a difficult task. It is surrounded by steep cliffs on all sides, except one. This approach is defended by a double wall and is only 200 feet wide. II: 29

49 Vs. the Adatuci. Adatuci 4. The Aduatuci make frequent unsuccessful sorties against the Romans. The Romans encamp and made a rampart of 15,000 feet with a large mobile tower, and sheds. The Aduatuci doubt that the siege craft could be moved in an effective manner. However, the Adatuci seek peace when the towers were moving forward. 4. The terms for peace: the Adatuci must dump all their weapons over the walls. They throw over 2/3 of them (thought to be the total) in piles as large as the walls of the fort. Caesar promptly grants peace. II: 29-31

50 Vs. the Adatuci: Breech of Peace and Penalty. Adatuci 4. During nightfall, the Aduatuci make a sneak attack with improvised shields and the weapons left over. The Romans expeditiously concentrate their forces at the point of attack by using flares. The Aduatuci are repelled and 4,000 killed in action in the fierce fighting. 4. Caesar orders his troops into the town the next day, selling the entire population into slavery: 53,000. II: 32-33

51 Publius Crassus brings the maritime tribes under control with a single legion The Roman army encamps in the country of Caruntes and the Andes. Caesar returned to Italy, two weeks of holiday declared. Noviodunum Bibrax Bibracte II: 34-35

52 56 b.c.e.

53 Caesar sends Servius Galba with the 12 th legion and a detachment of cavalry southeast Mission: to open up the dangerous trade routes Galba is victorious in a number of engagements. He decides to encamp 2 cohorts with the Nantuates 8 with the Veragri in the town of Octodurus Bibrax Bibracte Octudurus 12 III: 1

54 The city of Octudurus. The city is within a small valley surrounded by towering mountains. The town is divided into 2 sectors: a Roman side and a Gallic. The Roman side is well fortified. III: 1

55 The city of Octudurus. Galba orders a patrol out to bring in grain. The sector of the town inhabited by the Gauls has been abandoned during the night. The hills now covered by them. Gallic motivations: The Roman legion was under strength, the terrain was in the Gaul s favor, and they are upset at having to hand the Romans hostages. Galba holds a war council and decides to make a stand in the camp. III: 2-3

56 Romans encircled at Octuduras. The Gauls attack ferociously for six hours. The Romans fight without the benefit of reserve; situation very bleak. III: 4-5

57 Roman Sortie. Gauls routed. 4. The Romans engage in a single mass attack. The Gauls, are unable to close ranks and are routed. 10,000 out of 30,000 are killed. Surviving Gauls flee. 4. Galba decides to cross the river, burn the village, and return to the land of the Allobroges. III: 6

58 Publius Crassus winters with the 7 th legion in the country of the Andes. Grain supplies low and Crassus sends out ambassadors. The Veneti take ambassadors hostage and beckon neighboring tribes to join an alliance, rather than be Roman slaves. Veneti a well know naval power Caesar orders ships built on the Loire river and gives orders to muster sailors. Veneti 7 Andes III: 7-9

59 Gallic Forces under the Veneti. Veneti Osismi Lexovii Nametes Ambiliati Morini: Menapii: Reinforcements Via Britain III: 7-9

60 Veneti Venelli Luxovii Curiosolites Caesar, aware that all Gaul could be on the brink of rebellion, decides to divide his forces to deter rebellion. Titus Labienus sent with cavalry to hold the Belgians to their duty. Publius Crassus sent with a total 12 cohorts and a detachment of cavalry to prevent southern intervention. Titus Sabinus takes three legions to control the Venelli, Curiosolites, and Lexovii. 4. Decimus Brutus in command of the naval forces, ordered to attack the Veneti as soon as possible. 5. Caesar takes 4 legions toward the Veneti. III: 11

61 Veneti town Hoping. Veneti towns hard to take over, being built upon spits Approaches by land difficult due to receding tides Approaches by sea difficult because the ships get caught in the tides. 4. Veneti can simply hop from town to town, avoiding the Romans. III: 12

62 Analysis of Veneti Ships. Sails made of animal Hide Thick Hull, Romans could not pierce High stern for rough seas anti missile attacks Flat Hull better suited for the shallows III: 13

63 Problems in battle vs. the Veneti. Romans do not use conventional naval tactics, unable to pierce their hulls with their beaks. Also the enemy sterns are so high that the Romans can not shoot missiles on their decks. Conversely, the Veneti shot missiles in a more effective manner. III: 14-15

64 Roman Solution and victory. Romans construct hooks to tear down rigging and immobilize enemy ships. Additional Roman ships would then surround and board the enemy. The Veneti attempted to flee from battle after seeing the Roman countermeasure. However, a dead calm leaves them immobile. 4. Most of the Veneti fleet destroyed. III: 14-15

65 Venelli Luxovii End of the Veneti campaign. The survivors have nowhere to run. Caesar kills their entire senate. The Remaining Veneti are sold into slavery. Quintus Titurius Sabinas vs. the Venelli. III: 16

66 Sabinus Vs. the Venelli. 2 Miles Sabinus encamps only 2 miles from the camp of Viridovix. Viridovix forms up and offers battle on a daily basis. Sabinus does not want to fight with such a numerous force, unless he holds the advantage. Secondly he wishes to give an impression of fear to the enemy. Sabinus sends a member of the Gallic auxiliary force to the Venelli, who posing as a deserter, indicates that Sabinus will leave in the morning to reinforce Caesar in the West. The Venelli are convinced that they can win if they attack immediately. III: 17

67 The Venelli routed. The Venelli charge uphill in disorder with bundles of wood to fill in the Roman encampment trenches. They arrive breathlessly. The Romans charge from two gates of the camp and slaughter the tired and over-burdened Gauls. A rout ensues; few survivors. III: 18-19

68 Luxovii Publius Crassus and his auxiliary forces encounter the Aquitani and Sontiates. Venelli Curiosolites Veneti III: 20 Aquitania Sontiates

69 Crassus Vs. the Sontiates After a brief cavalry engagement, the Sontiates fall back and the Romans pursue. The Sontiates launch an ambush in a valley. After suffering many casualties, the Sontiates fall back toward a stronghold. 4. They attempt a sortie to thwart Roman siege operations to no avail. They sue for peace and begin to hand over weapons. 5. Adiatunnus, a local leader attempts an attack with an elite force(600 Soldurii), but is repulsed. Crassus grants peace. III: 21 22

70 The stronghold of the Sotates Venelli Veneti Curiosolites Luxovii Vocates Tarusates Publius Crassus and his auxiliary forces encounter the Vocates and Tarusates. Many of the enemy leaders have served with Quintus Sertorius and use Roman military tactics. Crassus seeks a decisive battle. Aquitania Sotates III: 23

71 Crassus Vs. the Vocates and Tarusates. Crassus sends his forces in a double line with his auxiliaries in the center. The enemy attempts to outwait the Romans, Crassus gives the order to attack. III: 24

72 Crassus Vs. the Vocates and Tarusates. Fierce fighting on both sides. The Romans attempt to fill in the trenches of the camp. The cavalry reports the rear gate is not effectively fortified. The Roman camp guard cohorts join the cavalry on the camp raid. Surrounded on all sides, the enemy bugs out and the cavalry pursues. Barely a quarter of 50,000 survive. III: 25-27

73 The stronghold of the Sotates Morini Menapii Veneti Venelli Luxovii Curiosolites Most of Gaul surrenders and sends hostages. However, the Menapii and Morini are still under arms. Caesar marches to put down this threat. Tarusates Vocates Aquitania Sotates III: 27-28

74 Caesar vs. the Morini and Menapii. 4. The enemy avoids open battle, by taking to the forest. The Gauls attempt an attack, while the Romans prepare their camp. They are repelled. The Romans do not pursue into the forest. The Romans begin to cut down the forest and build barricades protecting their flanks. 4. Some cattle as well as baggage are taken by the roman forces. The Gauls withdraw deeper into the forest. III: 28-29

75 The stronghold of the Sotates Morini Menapii Venelli Veneti Curiosolites Luxovii Tarusates Vocates After ravaging the countryside, Caesar leaves to encamp for the winter. Aquitania Sotates III: 29

76 55 b.c.e.

77 The stronghold of the Sotates Morini Usipetes Teneteri Suebi Tarusates The Usipetes and Teneteri cross the Rhine due to constant harassment by the Suebi. Sotates IV: 1-2

78 Usipetes and Teneteri cross the Rhine. The Usipetes and the Teneteri attempt to cross the Rhine. However, they are within plain sight of the Menapii patrols. They perform a feint/ withdraw for three days. The Germans then double back, cross the river, and slaughter the Menapii. IV: 4

79 The stronghold of the Sotates Usipetes Morini Suebi Meuse river 4. Treveri Usipetes and Teneteri Moselle River Tarusates Sotates The Usipetes and Teneteri enter the territory of the Treveri. Caesar rejoins the army early and heads east. The Germans send envoys and beg Caesar not to press forward. Caesar refuses due to reports of German cavalry detachment crossing the Meuse. 4. Caesar sends 5,000 cavalry to collect water at the Meuse. IV: 6-9

80 Contact at the Meuse. German Cavalry tactics. 2`. The Germans unhorse and charge the enemy on foot. The Germans spear the horses in their bellies. The German infantry number only 800. However, they still attack the Roman and auxiliary cavalry forces. The Roman forces turn tail and flee while suffering seventy-five casualties. IV: 12

81 Moselle R iver Meuse river Romans vs. Germans.. Rout at the Moselle. Rhine River SPQR Leaders from the German camp approach the Roman camp in hopes of securing peace. Caesar realizes that this is merely a stalling tactic in order for their cavalry to return to camp. Caesar detains them. Caesar leads his forces in triple line to the German camp. The Germans are overrun and they flee panic stricken to the Moselle and Rhine rivers. The Romans pursue and kill a great number, while the rivers kill their share as well. END OF GERMAN CAMPAIGN. IV: 13-15

82 The stronghold of the Sotates Morini Sugambri Tarusates Caesar demands that the Sugambri turn in the renegade cavalry still at large. The Sugambri state that the Rhine is the limit of Roman power. Caesar begins to build a bridge over the Rhine. Sotates IV: 15-16

83 Caesar crosses the Rhine. Rhine River 4. Moselle River Caesar finishes the bridge in 10 days, crosses, and leaves a strong guard on each side. The Sugambri retire to thick forests. Caesar destroys many crops and villages. The Sugambri concentrate a large force and prepare for an attack. 4. Caesar judges he has made a sufficient show of power. He crosses the Rhine and tears down the bridge. IV: 17-19

84 1 st invasion of Britain Purpose of campaign: Short intelligence gathering operation Gain intelligence on: size of Britain tactics of the enemy harbors and landing zones IV: 20

85 The stronghold of the Sotates Morini Caesar dispatches Gaius Volusenus to Britain to reconnoiter for potential landing zones. He returns in five days. The fleet utilized in the previous campaign against the Veneti is sent forward and prepared. Caesar marches his army into the vicinity of the Morini. The Britons learn of Caesar's intentions and sent deputations to submit to Rome s authority. Caesar sends them back with Commius, leader of the Atrebates. His orders to Commius were to urge other communites to affirm loyalty toward Rome. Sotates IV: 21

86 Morini 4. Menapii 5. The Morini pledge their alliance. Eighty transports available to transport two legions. Eighteen cavalry transports still eight miles from the embarkation port. 4. Quintus Titurius Sabinus and Lucius Aurunculeius Cotta to subdue any unloyal Morini and Menapii. 5. Publius Sulpicius Rufus heads garrison charged to guarding the harbor. IV: 22

87 LZ 1 LZ 2 Caesar sets sail around midnight. The cavalry not yet embarked. He arrives around 9:00 am and waits for the remainder of the fleet. Caesar finds the first landing zone had overhanging cliffs giving the advantage to the enemy. The fleet moves 7miles up coast to an open beach and begins to land troops. IV: 23

88 The Romans have landed. Shallows The Britons realize the Roman relocation and move in chariots and cavalry to meet them. Roman ships could not run ashore, unless they were in deep water, due to the deep hulls. The Britons hold the advantage fighting on familiar terrain. Their cavalry is trained to dash into the surf and fight. 4. Caesar sends battleships whose shapes are unfamiliar to the Britons, to attack with artillery on the flanks. 5. The Romans finally able to form up and drive the Britons back. However, but cannot pursue due to the absence of cavalry. IV: 24-26

89 Full Moon and a lost fleet The Britons send a peace commission and deliver hostages to Caesar. The ships carrying the cavalry encounter a storm and turn back to the main land. A full moon causes unusually high tides. The Roman fleet is severely disabled. Ships beached become water logged, while the ships at sea are smashed in the storm, leaving the Romans without grain and a lack of ships. 4. The Briton chieftains decide to attack the Romans. 5. The 7 th legion is sent out to gather grain. IV: 27-31

90 Rescue of the 7 th legion The Camp guards report dust rising in the distance. The 7 th legion is in trouble. Caesar leads the majority of the 10 th legion out to investigate. The Britons surround the 7 th with chariots and cavalry, but disperse after Caesar s arrival. 4. Caesar leads his forces back to camp. IV: 32

91 Briton chariot tactics The chariots ride all over the field and engage the enemy force with missiles. The warriors then dismount and fight on foot, while the drivers keep the chariots accessible. Chariots combine the mobility of cavalry and the steadfastness of Infantry. IV: 33

92 Briton counter attack The Britons gather a large force and march on Roman forces. Caesar forms up his legions and the cavalry provided by Commius. The Romans disperse the enemy and engage in a short pursuit. They burn many buildings and return to camp. IV: 34-35

93 Return to the continent Morini Menapii Caesar returns. However, two of the transports which have been cut off from the main force, land are attacked by 6,000 Morini. Roman cavalry comes to the rescue and kills many Morini. The 7 th and 10 th legions attack the rebel Morini and burn both their forest and crops. 4. The army winters with the Belgae. The Senate declares a twenty-- day holiday. IV: 36-38

94 54 B.C.E.

95 2 nd invasion of Britain

96 The stronghold of the Sotates Boulonge Treveri Tarusates Caesar orders the legates to build ships with a shallower keel to increase landing capabilities. Ships to concentrate at the port of Boulonge. Caesar takes four lightly armed legions and 800 cavalry to the land of the Treveri, quiets a tribal dispute, returns back to Boulonge. The Aeduan Dumnorix refuses to go to Britain. He is pursued leaving the Roman camp and killed. Sotates V: 1-2

97 LZ Labienus guards the harbor with 3 legions and 2,000 cavalry. Caesar takes 5 legions and 2,000 cavalry to Britain. Caesar lands unopposed, for the Britons are awed by the sheer number of Roman ships. V: 8

98 Romans engage and drive the Britons back SPQR 5. Caesar advances with just over four legions to make contact. He leaves ten cohorts and 300 cavalry to guard the camp. At midnight, the Romans spot the enemy forces twelve miles out. Their chariots attack but are repulsed. The Britons flee to a forest stronghold. The entire approach is blocked by tree trunks. The Britons employ small units against the pursuing Romans. 4. The 7 th legion builds a ramp and forms a testudo (tortoise formation) to breech the fortifications. The enemy disperses from the fort. 5. Caesar forbids a pursuit in order to encamp. The next morning Caesar sends out 3 detachments of infantry and cavalry to engage the enemy. V: 9

99 Severe damage to the fleet. Protection Option. SPQR The attack is called off when Caesar receives word of the storm. 40 Ships are destroyed and the reminder damaged. Caesar orders Labienus to build as many ships as possible. Plan to protect the fleet. Caesar wants all ships beached and entrenched within the camp. This task takes ten days and nights of hard work. V: 9-11

100 Caesar engages Cassivellaunus. Caesar renews his attack against the Britons with the same expeditionary force as before (four legions plus and cavalry). V: 12-14

101 Caesar engages Cassivellaunus. SPQR Enemy cavalry and chariots attack Roman cavalry while on the march. They are repulsed to the forests. Romans proceed to encamp. Enemy forces attack the encamping Romans. Caesar supports his pickets with (2) chief cohorts from each legion. The Britons have the advantage of not wearing armor and fighting in scattered masses. The Briton cavalry also employ the tactic of enticing the Roman cavalry to pursue, then attacking the Romans on foot. The Romans repulse them at cost to the legions. V: 15-16

102 Caesar engages Cassivellaunus. The next day the enemy show themselves in small groups. Caesar sends all the cavalry and three legions to forage. The Britons skirmish with the cavalry and suddenly attack the foraging legions from all directions. The Romans rout them. Cassivellaunus s reinforcements leave. V: 17

103 Caesar crosses the Thames. Caesar crosses the Thames River, fordable only at one point guarded by both stakes and enemy forces. Caesar orders cavalry to charge through the river, the legions to follow at their heels, even though only the head of the legioniaries were above water. The Briton s chariots harass Caesar s column on the march, restricting his ability to lay waste to the land. The Trinobantes, Cenimagni, Segontiaci, Ancalites, Bibroci, and Cassi surrender to Caesar. They tell Caesar that Cassivellaunus is in a forest fortification. V: 18-20

104 Caesar attacks the stronghold of Cassivellanus. Caesar attacks the stronghold from 2 directions. After a brief stand, the Britons flee. Many cattle seized. Many of the fleeing Britons are caught and killed. V: 21

105 Briton defeat at Roman camp. The surrender of Cassivellaunus. Cassivellaunus orders an attack on the Roman naval camp. The Romans make a sortie and repel the attackers. Cassivellaunus surrenders and agrees to pay tribute to Rome. V: 22

106 Return to the Mainland. The Army is transported back to the continent in two separate voyages. V: 23

107 Morini Esubi 5. Samaraobriva Nervii Eburones Remi A council is held at Amiens, for a drought has caused a scarcity of grain in Gaul. Caesar decides to distribute his legions. One legion under Gaius Fabius to the Morini. One legion under Quintus Cicero to the Nervii. One legion under Lucius Roscius to the Esubi??? 4. One legion under Titus Labienus to the Remi. 5. Three legions under Marcus Crassus and the legates Lucius Munatius Plancus and Gaius Trebonius to the Belgae. 6. One new legion and five cohorts under Quintus Titurius Sabinus and Lucius Aurunculeius Cotta to the Eburones. Caesar remains in Gaul. V: 24

108 Gallic Rebellion

109 Morini Nervii Caruntes Eburones Remi 5. Tasgetius, restored to kingship by Caesar over the Caruntes, is assassinated. Caesar feared the number of Gauls involved may cause rebellion. One legion under Lucius Plancus sent to arrest those involved with the assassination. Riots and rebellion started by Ambiorix and Catuvolcus. Indutiomarus, the Trevaeran, encourages them to attack Sabinus and Cotta. V: 25-26

110 Sabinus and Cotta hold off Ambiorix. Trickery of Ambiorix. 4. The Gauls overrun a wood--gathering detachment. They proceed to attack the camp, but are repelled by Spanish cavalry. Ambiorix meets with the Romans. He states that the attack was made by Gallic consent, not his. He tells the Romans that all of Gaul is under arms and that the Germans will be in the vicinity in 2 days. He promises the Romans safe passage through his territory if they leave immediately. 4. The Romans believe the warning and prepare to march out. V : 26-31

111 Romans led into a Trap. Baggage Train The noises from the camp alert the Gauls to the imminent departure of the Roman forces. They plan an ambush in a broad valley 2 miles from the Roman camp. The Gauls separate the baggage train from the main body. They begin their assault on the main body utilizing the terrain to their advantage. V: 32

112 Sabinus s s and Cotta s s last stand. 4. Cotta orders his troops into a square and abandons the baggage. Some troops, however, still leave their ranks to save their baggage. Charges by cohorts extremely effective, resulting in the deaths of many Gauls. However, the Gauls notice a wide gap in the Roman ranks after a charge. Ambiorix orders his forces to perform hasty retreats to force a cohort to charge, creating a gap in the line. The Gauls will then exploit this gap by attacking the unguarded flanks. 4. Sabinus attempts to negotiate with Ambiorix. He approaches him with a small escort (tribunes and centurions) as agreed with Ambiorix. Ambiorix surrounds the escort and kills all of them. V: 33-37

113 Sabinus s s and Cotta s s last stand. 4. SPQR The Gauls charge on all sides. Cotta falls in battle, along with most of his force. A few survivors make a final stand in the camp. They all take their own lives during the night. A few survivors make it to Labienus and tell him of the loss. V: 37

114 Morini Nervii Caruntes Cicero Aduatici Ambiorix rouses both the Aduatici and the Nervii to attack Cicero s camp. Ambiorix also contacts the Ceutrones, Grudii, Levaci, Pleumoxii, and the Geidumni to attack Cicero. V: 38-39

115 Cicero attacked. SPQR 4. The Gauls overrun a wood--gathering detachment. The Romans repel an all out assault. Cicero attempts to get a message out to Caesar, but it is intercepted. The Gauls construct 120 towers during the night and attack. Their are repelled again. 4. Nervian nobles familiar to Cicero ask for a conference; their request is granted. They told Cicero the same story that was told to the lost legion: the Romans will be granted safe passage through the territory. Cicero replies that it is not the Roman habit to accept terms from an armed enemy. V: 39-41

116 Cicero besieged. 5. SPQR 4. The Gauls circumvallate the camp with a rampart ten feet high and a ditch fifteen feet wide. They also produce towers at the same height as Roman ramparts; they prepare grappling hooks, and mantelets. They draw on past experience and information from past contact and Roman prisoners. The Gauls launch darts of fire into the camp. Setting a blaze the Gallic style thatched huts. The Gauls attack on all sides. Roman courage prevails and with many examples of heroism. Including the 3 rd cohort s taunting and two centurions engaging in open man to man fighting. Incessant battle for many days. 4. Many messengers are caught and tortured to death in front of the Roman camp. 5. A loyal Nervian, Vertico, agrees to send one of slaves to transport a message on his pike to Caesar. V: 42-45

117 Caruntes 4. Caesar receives the message of the attack on Cicero. Crassus marches to meet with Caesar. Gaius Fabius is order to await Caesar s forces in the land of the Atrebates. 4. Labienus is ordered to bring his legion if the situation seems safe. He also collects 400 horsemen in preparation. V: 46

118 5. 4. Caruntes Crassus is assigned an additional legion to protect Samarobriva. Fabius combines forces with Caesar. Labienus is unable to join in the attack, for the entire Treveri force is encamped three miles from him. 4. Caesar sends word of his approach to Cicero. 5. The entire Gallic force, numbering 60,000, marches to meet Caesar. Cicero warns Caesar of the Gallic movement. V: 47-49

119 Caesar s s relief force makes contact. Caesar makes visual contact with the Gallic force in a valley. Caesar does not want to fight such a large force (60,000 Gauls vs. 7,000 Romans) on unfavorable ground. The Romans pitch camp. Caesar sends scouts to search for potential crossing sites. V: 49

120 Caesar s s relief force makes contact. Gallic cavalry crosses the river and engages Roman forces. Caesar orders the cavalry to retreat and the camp s ramparts are to be heightened. These operations intended to give a misleading impression of fear. The Gallic forces buy into the deception and attempt to fill the camp s trenches. The Romans cover their gates with a single layer of dirt to give the appearance that they have been destroyed. The Romans charge out of all the gates and rout the Gauls, killing many and disarming the rest. V: 50-51

121 5. XXX 4. Senones Caesar relieves Cicero and finds that one out every ten men has been wounded in some way. Fabius is sent back to the Morini. The Treveri give up the attack after hearing of the Roman victory. 4. Roscius, commander of the 13 th legion, reports that a large group of Aremoricans formed up eight miles from his camp. They leave after hearing word of the Roman victory. 5. Caesar returns back to Samarobriva. All of Gaul plans for war after hearing of the slaughter of Sabinus. Caesar conducts a Gallic council. The senate of the Senones refused to come to Caesar to discuss the matter of their king. Many Gauls were impressed by this. V: 52-54

122 Treveri Aduactici Senones Nervii Caruntes The Treveri, under the command of Indutiomarus, to hire the Germans to no avail. Indutiomarus begins to train his forces. Indutiomarus plans for war, first to attack Labienus and then the Remi. V: 55-56

123 The attack of Indutiomarus and his end. 4. Labineus, informed by Cingetorix and his allies of the impeding attack, sends messengers to neighboring states to raise and reinforce the camp with cavalry. Indutiomarus s cavalry would parade on a daily basis, occasionally attacking the camp, in an effort to intimidate the Romans. The Roman camp was reinforced by the cavalry unbeknown to Indutiomarus. 4. Indutiomarus makes a mistake. One evening, after parading his forces, the Gauls disperse in an unorganized fashion. Labineus orders a hasty counterattack, with Indutiomarus the primary target. Cavalry and cohorts charge from two gates and kill Indutiomarus in a ford of a river. His head is brought back to camp. The allies of Indutiomarus, the Nervii and Eburones, disperse. V: 57-58

124 53 B.c.e.

125 4. Menapii Nervii Treveri Aduatici Senones Menapii Aduacti Nervii Germans ( local) Carnutes Caesar orders his generals to draft new troops, asks Ganeus Pompey to call up troops that served during his consulship. By the end winter, three new legions were mobilized. The Treveri prepare for war and gather a league. They also send delegations to the Germans across the Rhine. The Senones and Carnutes in league. 4. Caesar takes four legions and forces the Nervii to surrender and hand over hostages. VI: 1-2

126 Senones Lutetia Caesar returns the legions to their winter stations. He holds a Gallic council. All come except the Carnutes, Senones, and Treveri. Caesar moves the council to Lutetia amongst the Parisii. That same day, he moves his legions to the territory of the Senones. Acco, the leader of the Carnutes, plans but fails to move all his people into strongholds due to the speed of the Roman advance. They beg Caesar for peace. They are granted, and are obligated to provide cavalry. VI: 3-4

127 Menapii 4. Caesar then concentrates his efforts on both the Treveri and Ambiorix. He takes Cavarinus with the cavalry of the Senones. Caesar judges that Ambiorix will not fight a pitched battle. Both the Menapii and the Eburones never sign a peace treaty with Rome. He sends the baggage of the entire army to Labienus, along with two additional legions. Caesar divides his forces into 3 groups among himself, Gaius Fabius, and Marcus Crassus. The Menapii flee to the forests. The Romans devastate the countryside. The Menapii finally negotiate for peace. 4. Caesar leaves Commius, the Atrebatian, in charge of the cavalry, proceeds to the Treveri. VI: 5-6

128 The Treveri learn of the reinforcement of the camp of Labienus. They decide to camp 15 miles from his position to wait for their German reinforcements. VI: 5-6

129 Labienus finds victory. Surrender of the Treveri Labienus advances with 25 cohorts and cavalry, leaving 5 cohorts behind. Labienus has no intention of crossing the steep banked river. He encamps only 1 mile from the Gauls. Labienus gives the impression that he will leave camp out of fear of the combined Gallic and approaching Germans. This information passed to the Gallic force by a member of the auxiliary cavalry. Labienus orders that theromans make their departure extremely noisy to give the impression of fear. 4. The Gauls take the bait and cross the river to attack. Labienus orders his baggage train on a hill and guards it with a small detachment of cavalry. He wheels his lines and attacks. 5. The Gauls can not withstand the unexpected charge and are routed. The survivors flee to the nearest forest. The Treveri surrender after a few days. VI: 7-8

130 4. The Germans return home after hearing of the defeat. Caesar crosses the Rhine, leaving a strong guard. The Ubii secure their alliance and report that the Suebi had provided reinforcements. Caesar orders them to gather their supplies in stronghold; Ubian scouts sent to conduct reconnaissance. 4. The Suebi retreat to the Bacenis forest to await the Romans. VI: 9-10

131 Caesar decides not to pursue the Suebians due to lack of grain. He crosses the Rhine, and disables the bridge. He establishes a strong guard of 12 cohorts and a four story tower, under the command of Gaius Volcatius Tullus. The hunt for Ambiorix: Caesar begins this as soon as the grain starts to ripen in the Ardennes forest. He sends Lucius Minucius Basilus ahead with all the cavalry, with orderes to proceed with stealth and not have any fires in his camps. The cavalry catches many Gauls unprepared. Ambiorix barely escapes the Romans. No concentrated force meets the Romans on the march. VI: 29-31

132 5. 4. Condrusi and Segni (local German tribes) beg for peace. Caesar grants them their request as long as they agree to hand over any Eburones that may have taken refuge in their territory. Caesar divides his forces, arranging for them to regroup in one week s time. The baggage of all the legions deposited at Aduatuca, the old Roman fort. The 14 th legion and 200 cavalry posted here under the command of Quintus Tullius Cicero. Three legions to the borders of the Menapii, under Titus Labienus. 4. Three legions to ravage the border districts of the Aduatuci, under Gaius Trebonius. 5. Three legions to the Scheldt river, under Caesar, to hunt for Ambiorix. VI: 32-33

133 Eburones Sugambri No organized groups found. Caesar aware of the risks of guerilla warfare, invites the neighboring states to take part in the plunder of the Euburones. Many Gallic forces take part from all sides. The Sugambri hear the news that outside forces have been invited to take part in the plunder. They join in promptly with 2,000 cavalry. After taking many prisoners, the Sugambri learn that all of the Roman baggage is very close and lightly guarded. They proceed to the Roman camp at Aduatuca. VI: 34-35

134 Cicero holding Aduatuca The day of the regrouping at hand, but Caesar was nowhere to be found. Cicero thinks that the reinforcements will be late, he sends five cohorts to forage, one composed of recovering veteran legionaries (this legion was among the new ones raised by Pompey). Cicero permitted some sutlers and live stock to leave as well. The Germans attack! Their attack, screened by a nearby forest, is directed at the rear gate. The cohort on guard caught by surprise, but manages to hold their ground. Some of the sutlers caught in the onslaught. 4. The Germans go around the camp attempting to gain entrance. A senior centurion, Publius Sextius Basculus leads the defense. 5. The foraging cohorts realize the attack is occurring and turn about. 6. At the same time, the Germans sight them and charge from all sides. VI: 36-39

135 Cicero holding Aduatuca The sutlers run to a hill and among the Roman ranks, causing more chaos. The rookie cohorts want to form a wedge. The veteran cohort, refusing the wedge tactic, makes a sudden charge back to the Roman camp, suffering not a single casualty. Other units make an ineffective stand on a hill and attempt to get back to camp. The Romans and sutlers end up in a bad position. 4. The senior centurions make a sortie and break the enemy line. Many of the Romans rescued. However, some of the rescue sortie surrounded and killed by the barbarians. 5. The Germans give up the hope of storming the fortified camp and cross the Rhine. VI: 40-41

136 Durocortorum Agedincum Caesar sends his auxiliary cavalry to ravage the countryside. All grain and livestock was seized. Caesar moves his army to Durocortorum and holds a Gallic council. Acco beat to death in the traditional manner. Caesar divides his forces. Two legions to the Treveri. 4. Two legions to the Lingones. 5. Six legions to Ageedincum. Caesar returns to Italy to hold the assizes. VI: 42-44

137 52 b.c.e vercingetorix

138 4. Cenabum Arverni Caesar faces internal instability at Rome with the murder of Clodius. The Gauls hear of these internal problems and call a Gallic council. They point out the fate of the late Acco. Gallic plan: cut Caesar off from his army. Carnutes massacre Roman citizens at Cenabum. The news spreads to the Arverni and to Vercingetorix. VII: 1-3

139 ulerci Senones Parissi Andii Turoni 4. Pictones movices Gergovia Carduci Vercingetorix calls on his followers to fight for liberation. However, the chieftains of his town expel him to the countryside; Vercingetorix raises a large force and retakes the city. He is soon pronounced king. Vercingetorix gains support from several Gallic tribes, gathering both troops and hostages from them. VII: 4

140 The Army of Vercingetorix. Vercingetorix Senones Pictones Cadurci Turoni Turoni Lemovices Andi Aulerici *Does not include the Maritime tribes. VII: 4

141 Bituriges Vercingetorix divides his forces. Lucterius, a Cadurcan, marches on the Ruteni. Vercingetorix marches on the Bituriges. The Bituriges ask the Aedui for help. The Aedui send cavalry, but do not cross the river due to fear of treachery. 4. The Bituriges join Vercingetorix. Ruteni VII: 5

142 6. 4. The situation in Rome had been calmed by Pompey s measures. Caesar heads to Transalpine Gaul. He does not wish to recall his legions nor does he plan to hand his safety over to local tribes. Lucterius wins over the local tribes and means to attack the province in the vicinity of Narbo. Caesar reinforces the garrisons in the province as well as the Helvii. 4. Lucterius retires from invasion. 5. Caesar marches to the territory of the Arverni and begins to lay waste. It is dead of winter and the Gauls are taken by surprise. 6. Vercingetorix returns to the territory of the Arverni Helvii Narbo VII: 6-8

143 Caesar heads to Vienna to raise additional cavalry and infantry. He leaves Brutus in charge. Caesar picks up fresh cavalry and heads to his two legions among the Lingones. Caesar gives the order to concentrate the legions. Gorgobina 4. Vercingetorix marches to Gorgobina, inhabited by the Boii and the loyal Aedui. Vienna Narbo VII: 9

144 Cenabum Agedincum Caesar decides to relieve his allies. Two legions and the army s baggage left at Agedincum. Caesar secures his rear by attacking Vellaunodunum. The city surrenders within three days. Caesar leaves Gaius Trebonius to supervise the surrender, while he marches to Cenabum. Vellaunodunum Narbo VII: 10

145 The Romans retake Cenabum. 4. Loire The Carnutes assuming he siege of Vellaunodunum will be protracted, prepare a relief force. Caesar arrives late in the day and encamps. However he maintains two legions on duty, in the event the Gauls attempt to flee across the Loire. Around midnight the Gauls silently began to cross the river. 4. The two legions on duty launch an attack on the fleeing Carnutes. They proceed to burn the gates and attack the Gauls, who desperately attempt to flee on the narrow bridge. 5. Very few of the Gauls survive and the town is sacked. VII: 11 VII: 11

146 Caesar crosses the Loire and heads toward Noviodunum. Vercingetorix abandons the siege at Gorgobina and marches to meet Caesar. Noviodunum Narbo VII: 11-12

147 Light resistance at Noviodunum The Gauls beg Caesar for mercy. Caesar orders them to stack arms and to give cavalry and livestock. Caesar sends a detachment of centurions and infantry to collect weapons and livestock. Vercingetorix s advance cavalry come within sight of the town. The townspeople shut the gates and man the wall. The Roman detachment fights its way out of the town. 4. Caesar sends Roman cavalry to repel the Gauls. 5. The Roman cavalry experiences difficulty. Caesar sends the German cavalry to reinforce the attack and the Gauls are repelled. 6. The townspeople hand over those that were responsible for the violence and surrender. VII: 12-13

148 Caesar heads toward the city of Avaricum, the largest and strongest town of the Bituriges. Vercingetorix calls a Gallic council due to the recent defeats. He calls for a new plan: scorched earth policy: burn small farms as well as any unfortified city burn 20 cities in one day. Avaricum Avaricum is spared, due to its defendable location. Vercingetorix follows Caesar to Avaricum. Narbo VII: 13-16

149 The Battle for Avaricum Veure Marsh Avaricum blessed with natural fortifications. The Romans encamp at the small gap between the Veure River and the marsh. Although supply is a problem, Caesar claims the legions hungered for revenge for the slaughter of Roman citizens at Cenabum. Vercingetorix sets camp 16 miles away from Caesar. His forces ambush Roman foraging units on a regular basis. Caesar erects a ramp and two towers; begins constructing sheds. 4. Caesar learns from enemy prisoners that Vercingetorix moved his camp closer. Vercingetorix leads the cavalry and some infantry to ambush the foraging the next day. 5. Caesar leads a force out at midnight to meet the Gauls. 6. Vercingetorix hides his baggage and deploys his forces on a hill surrounded by marsh approximately fifty feet wide. They wait for the Romans to make a mistake and crash through the marsh. 7. Caesar does not give battle on such unfavorable terrain leads his forces back to camp. 8. Vercingetorix returns to his camp where is accused of treason. He plays off the accusers by forcing some of his slaves to act as Roman soldiers. They state, they ran from camp out of hunger and that the moral of the army was low. VII: 16-20

150 The Battle for Avaricum Veure Marsh Vercingetorix reinforces Avaricum with 10,000 men. Gallic counter attacks: The Gauls make constant raids on the Roman siege works as well as the legionaries at work.. They undermine the Roman siege ramp and destroy Roman mines. They also capture Roman grappling hooks with cranks and nooses. The Gauls also add height to their fortifications. Gallic walls extremely difficult to breech composed of a series of interleaving series of forty foot beams and large stones. This design withstands both fire and battering rams. 4. After 25 days the Roman ramp almost in contact with the enemy wall. The ramp is 330 feet wide x 80 feet high. VII: 21

151 Gauls try to destroy Roman siege efforts. Veure 4. Marsh The Gauls attack the ramp with incendiaries and undermining operations. The Gauls make a sortie from two gates. The standard 2 legions on duty react, as well as the rest of the camp: (1) legion to counter the sortie (1) legion to pull the towers back, and tend to the ramp The reminder of the army to tend to the fires. 4. The Gauls fight bravely, but are repulsed back to their town. The Romans manage to get the fires under control. 5. The Gauls plan to flee but the women wailed and begged not the men not to surrender. This noise alerts the Romans and the Gauls decide not to flee. VII: 21-26

152 The Fall of Avaricum. Veure Marsh The next day Caesar s towers are completed in heavy rain. The Gallic guards are posted carelessly. Caesar orders his men to work lazily. In the meantime Caesar forms up his forces under the cover of the sheds and prepares for battle. The Romans storm the wall and quickly take control of the walls. The Gauls flee to the far part of town and form wedges in the market and other level ground in hopes of making a stand. 4. The Romans avoid attack on the open ground. The Gauls panic, throw down their arms, and attempt to flee through the narrow exits of the town. 5. The Gauls are massacred trying to flee. Those who escape are cut down by the cavalry. Only 800/40,000 survive, having escaped during the initial escape phase. VII: 27-28

153 Vercingetorix rallies his demoralized army by attributing the Roman victory to their expertise in siege works and trickery. He fortifies his camp and receives aid from surrounding tribes. Vercingetorix summons all Gallic archers, and receives cavalry from both the Nitiobriges and the Aquitani. 4. Caesar consolidates his army at Avaricum. Caesar moves to settle an internal dispute amongst the Aedui. 4. The Aedui supplement all their cavalry and 10,000 infantry to protect garrison posts and grain convoys. VII: 29-33

154 Senones Parisi Caesar divides his forces: Four legions and cavalry under Labienus to the Senones and Parisii. Six legions and cavalry under Caesar to Gergovia. Vercingetorix begins to burn all the bridges on the Allier River when he hears of Caesar s plan. The Gauls also encamp on the opposite side of river each night to prevent the Romans from building a bridge. Gergovia VII: 34-35

155 Roman Deception Operations The Allier River can not be forded until autumn. The armies march within sight of one another. Caesar encamps in a wooded area near a destroyed bridge. At dawn Cesar sends four legions (cohorts divided to mask numbers) and his baggage train south. The Gauls followed on the opposite shore. Caesar keeps two legions in the wooded area. When the time of day for encamping arrives, the (2) legions repair the bridge, crossed the river and encamp. 4. Caesar recalls his forces to the new camp. 5. Vercingetorix makes forced marches to avoid fighting against his own will. VII: 35 VII: 35

156 Senones Parisi Caesar s forces (six legions) met Vercingetorix s army at Gergovia. Caesar has taken five days to reach the city, by his own account. Gergovia VII: 34-35

157 Battle for Gergovia. Auzon r. Gergovia is a formidable objective. The Romans encamp; daily cavalry engagements. The Gauls supplement their cavalry with archers. Caesar attacks and dislodges a small enemy detachment on a hill and under the cover of darkness. Lay of the land prevents the Gauls from foraging and securing water supply. Two legions encamp on the hill. The camps connected with a pair of 12 wide trenches. VII: 36

158 The Arverni bribed the Aeduan Convictolitavis to encourage a group of young men led by Litaviccus to wage war on the Romans. Litaviccus takes 10,000 Gauls toward Caesar. He halts about twenty-seven miles from Gergovia and tells his men false news. He states that Eporedorix and Viridomarus have been executed by the Romans on false charges of treachery. Litaviccus kills and tortures Roman citizens accompanying him. He spreads rumor of supposed treachery throughout Aeduan territory. Gergovia VII: 37-39

159 Battle for Gergovia Caesar receives word of the plot and immediately heads to intercept the Aedui with four legions lightly armed and all the cavalry. He leaves Gaius Fabius in charge of the camp with (2) legions. Caesar sights the Aeduan cavalry after marching twenty- five miles. He orders the cavalry to halt but not to attack the approaching Gauls. He orders Eporedorix and Vivirdomarus to mingle with the Aeduans. Aeduans realize that Litaviccus was lying and surrender to Caesar. 4. Litaviccus flees to Gergovia. 5. Caesar returns to Gergovia after three hours of rest. Halfway back to camp, he receives word that the Roman camp is under attack. The enemy retire for the night and Caesar arrives at dawn. The Gauls to do not renew their attack. VII: 41

160 The Aedui hear of the supposed Roman injustice as told by Litaviccus and attack Roman citizens in Cabillonum. When the Aeduans heard the truth they sent representatives to Caesar and beg for mercy. Caesar obliges but senses a general uprising. He prepares to make a withdrawal. Gergovia Cabillonum VII: 42-43

161 5. 8. > 1200 paces Battle for Gergovia Auzon r. The Gauls move their outlying forces to another hill out of fear of being cut off from supplies. Caesar sends out several squadrons of cavalry at midnight and orders them to make a lot of noise. Caesar sends out his muleteers with cavalry helmets, with a detachment of cavalry in the direction of the hills in the northwest. 4. Caesar sends out a legion toward the hills. He halts them and then conceals them in a wood. 5. The Gauls are spooked into action and move all of their forces to reinforce their position on the hilltop. 6. Caesar moved his forces in small groups from the larger to the smaller camp. He informed his commanders that they would have to fight at a disadvantage of terrain and they should prevent from being compelled to hasty charges. The descent up hill would be over 1200 paces due to the modifications to ease the grade. 7. The Gauls had produced a 6 wall of large stones halfway up the hill. 8. Caesar gives the order for the attack: The Aeduans are sent up from the right. Four legions charged up hill, crossed the wall and seized three camps. VII: 44-46

162 A failed Roman charge. 13 Caesar halts the 10 th legion; however, the other legions do not hear the trumpet sound. Their commanders are unable to hold their men back and they proceed to the town walls. The Gauls reinforce the city wall. The Romans are outnumbered and winded from the previous attack. Caesar orders Titus Sextius to bring up the 13 th legion to cover a potential Roman retreat. 4. Bitter hand- to--hand combat ensued. The Romans lose forty-six centurions. The Aedui are sighted on the right flank; some Romans panicked thinking they are enemy forces. Caesar moved the 10 th legion forward. 5. The Romans withdraw from battle. The 10 th legion slows the Gallic pursuit. The legions halt to make a stand when they reach somewhat level ground. 6. Vercingetorix returns his forces to their entrenchments. VII: 47-51

163 One last chance for battle. Auzon r. Caesar both reprimands and praises his troops. He leads them out in battle formation for two days. The Gauls respond only with a brief cavalry engagement, in which the Romans are victorious. Caesar finally leaves Gergovia. VII: 52-53

164 Noviodunum Gergovia Lutetia 5. Caesar crosses the Aller River where he has repaired the bridge. He releases Eporedorix and Viridomarus to the Aedui. Caesar deposits all the Gallic hostages, some baggage, public funds, and horses at Noviodunum. The Aedui made an alliance with the forces of Vercingetorix. 4. Eporedorix and Viridomarus betray the Romans and burn Noviodunum afte plundering Roman supplies. Gallic detachments are also raised on the Loire. The Gauls assume the Loire river is unfordable due to the melting s The Gauls plan to cut the Romans off from provisions or to force th back to the province. Bibracte 5. Caesar finds an emergency ford, using horses to break the current; his forc safely cross the Loire. He heads to combine forces with Labienus. 6. Labienus commences operations against Lutetia. VII: 53-57

165 Battle for Lutetia. Seine r Labienus approaches with four legions, having left the raw recruits behind to guard the baggage. Gallic reinforcements arrive at the town. The Gauls, commanded by Camulogenus, take position in the marsh hoping the Romans will charge into their position. 4. Labienus attempts to bridge across the marsh, but soon abandons this effort. 5. Labienus leaves camp around midnight and makes for Metiosedum. VII: 57-58

166 Labienus takes his forces to Metiosedum, requisitions fifty ships and ew recruits nd baggage lashes them together to serve as a bridge. After establishing a forward element, he rebuilds the town bridge and crosses the Seine River. Labienus marches his forces back to Lutetia. Bellovaci rally their forces. Metiosedum Gergovia VII: 58-59

167 6. 5. Deception tactics at Lutetia. 4. Seine r. The Gauls hear of Labienus s movement and burn and abandon both the city and the bridge. Labienus employs deception. He assigns a Roman knight to each of the fifty ships acquired from Metiosedum. They proceed downstream silently during the night to await an assault force. Five cohorts guard the camp. 4. Five cohorts with all the baggage and some small boats march upstream in a diversionary move. 5. Labienus silently marches out with three legions to rendezvous with his awaiting boats. He destroys Gallic patrols on route. 6. Three legions ferried over the Seine River. 7. The Gauls think the Romans are attempting to cross at three points. They divide their forces accordingly in three parts: downstream, upstream, and at their camp. VII: 60-61

168 The Showdown at Lutetia Seine r. The 7 th legion shocks enemy forces into flight. The Gauls offer stiff resistance on the left flank. The 7 th legion notices the fierce fighting on the left flank attacks the Gauls from the rear, killing them to a man, including Camulogenus. 4. Reinforcements from the Gallic camp move to a hill, where the majority of them are slaughtered. VII: 62

169 Agedincum Labienus marches to Agedincum and retrieves his baggage, then links up with Caesar. Vercingetorix attends a pan- Gallic council at Bibracte. He is elected General. He promptly orders all cavalry forces (15,000) to concentrate. He orders the burning of farms and grain to deny supply to the Romans. 10,000 infantry and 800 cavalry, under the command of Eporedorix s brother, to attack the Allobroges. 4. The Gabali and the Averni sent to attack the Helvetii. 5. The Ruteni and Cadurci sent to attack the Volcae Arecomici. Bibracte 4. Helvettii 5. Allobroges Volcae Arecomici VII: 62-64

170 Lucius Caesar raises and posts twenty-two cohorts for the defense of the Province. The Helvetii are beaten back by the invaders. The Allbroges effectively protect their territory. 4. Caesar realizes that the Gauls superiority will make reinforcement from Italy very difficult. He receives cavalry and light armed infantry from the Germans. 5. Caesar marches in the outlying areas of the Lingones and the Sequani to attain a disposition to effectively guard the province. 6. Vercingetorix halts his army only ten miles from the Roman camp and composed a plan to attack the Romans on the march. Allobroges Volcae Arecomici VII: 65-66

171 Gallic plan of attack. The Gauls intend to attack the Roman baggage train and separate the Romans from their essential baggage, thinking the Roman cavalry will not leave the column. The Gallic commanders swear that every man must ride through the enemy column twice or never be received in his house again. VII: 66

172 Caesar s army attacked on the march. The Gallic cavalry separate into three sections and attacked the army. One section halted the Roman march, while the other two make demonstrations on the flanks. Caesar orders his cavalry to separate into three sections as well and attacks. VII: 66

173 4. Caesar s army attacked on the march. 4. Caesar encloses the baggage trains within the legions, as fighting occurs on all fronts. Caesar orders his forces to wheel into line at any place where the line is threatened. The Germans dislodge the Gauls from a ridge on the right flank and drive them to Vercingetorix s position near a river. 4. The Gallic cavalry panic and retreat in fear of being surrounded. The entire Gallic force retreats, causing a great deal of slaughter and the capture of several nobles, including Eporedorix. VII: 67

174 Alesia

175 Vercingetorix retreats to Alesia. The Romans pursue and cut down 3,000 Gauls before sunset. The Romans begin to surround the fortress Alesia Allobroges Volcae Arecomici VII: 68

176 Mt. Rea First encounters at Alesia Brenne r. Ose r. Mt. Pennevelle Mt DeFlavigny 6. Oserain r.. Alesia seems vulnerable only to a siege. The Romans begin to circumvallate the fortress with a perimeter of 11 miles. The fortifications include camps at strategic points as well as 23 forts. The Gauls construct a trench and a 6 rubble wall. Vercingetorix launches a cavalry attack while construction is underway. 4. Caesar deploys both the Germans and some legions, to aid in the attack and prevent enemy infantry from attacking. 5. The Gauls flee and Germans pursue. Vercingetorix orders the town gates shut to prevent the desertion of his camp. The Germans retire from the attack after killing many Gauls and stealing horses. 6. Vercingetorix orders all his cavalry out to their perspective tribes before the Romans can complete their encirclement. He orders them to draft every man of military age and rescue Alesia, sine his supplies will only suffice for thirty days. The Gauls withdraw into their town and strict rationing is implemented. VII: 69-71

177 Mt. Rea Roman Defenses. Brenne r. Ose r. Mt. Pennevelle Mt DeFlavigny Oserain r.. The Romans dig a twenty foot deep trench to secure the construction work on the circumvallation. The Romans begin further defenses 800 paces back from the large trench to defend against frequent sorties of the Gauls. Caesar orders all his men to provide one month s food and fodder for themselves in order to minimize foraging parties. VII: 69-74

178 Roman Defenses. Gravestones 4. Lilies 5. Spurs The following defenses built on level terrain on both sides of the fortification Towers every 80 feet with antlers embedded from the breastwork. Two trenches 15 ft X 15 ft, the inner trench filled with water. Five rows of sharpened tree branches or stumps called gravestones in five feet deep holes. 4. Logs the width of a man s thigh placed in trenches 3 feet deep, with tops sharpened and hardened by fire. Also only four inches of the log visible. They are set up in eight rows in a Quincunx pattern. The soldiers called them lilies. 5. Rows of 1 logs with iron imbedded in them called spurs were buried into the ground. VII: 72-73

179 Council of Gallic chieftains They decide that all available males will yield an unmanageable force. A new quota is established. Alesia Volcae Arecomici VII: 74

180 Gallic relief army Quotas: called for 269,000/ 250,000 actual Aedui and dependants: 35,000 Averni 35,000 Armorican: 30,000 Sedusiavi Amivareti Aulerci Sedusiavi Eleuteti i Cadurci Gabali Velavii Curiosolites Redones Ambibarii Caletes Osismi Veneti Venelli Lemovices Lemovici 10,000 Ruteni 12,000 Santoni 12,000 Caruntes 12,000 Bituriges 12,000 Senones 12,000 Sequanni 12,000 Bellovaci 2,000 Pictones 8,000 Turoni 8,000 Parisii Helvetii Nervii Suessiones Morini 8,000 8,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 Ambiani 5,000 Mediomatrici 5,000 Petrocorii 5,000 Aulerci Cenomani 5,000 Atrebates 4,000 Velocassi 3,000 Lexovii 3,000 Aulerci Eburovices 3,000 VII: 75

181 Relief army organized in the land of the Aedui: 250,000 infantry and 8,000 cavalry. The officers are chosen: Supreme Command: Commius the Atrebatian Command over the Aedui:: Viridomarus and Eporedorix Command of the Arverni: Vercassivellaunus The relief army marches to Alesia. The date for relief having past, some in Alesia contemplated cannibalism. Alesia Volcae Arecomici VII: 77

182 VII: Mt. Rea Gallic breakout attempt # Brenne r Ose r. Mt. Pennevelle Mt DeFlavigny Oserain r.. Any Gaul unable to engage in war, as well as all the Mandubii, approach the Roman wall and beg for food and quarter. However, they are turned away. The relief army arrives and takes position less than than a mile away from Roman fortifications. The next day the Gauls field all of their cavalry in the plain and support their position with infantry. 4. Forces from Alesia prepared to cross the first trench and await further developments. 5. Caesar posts his forces on both sides of his line, with orders for units to stand fast. The cavalry is sent to engage. 6. The Gauls interspersed light-- armed infantry and archers with their cavalry forces. They inflict many Roman casualties. From noon until sunset the fighting is inconclusive. 7. The Germans charge and route their enemy as do Roman forces. The Gauls are chased back to their camp. 8. The forces from Alesia return to town.

183 VII: Mt. Rea Romans defeat the Gauls in a night battle Brenne r. Ose r. 5. Mt. Pennevelle Mt DeFlavigny Oserain r.. The Gauls from the camp prepare ladders and grappling hooks to overwhelm the Roman defenses and attacked under cover of darkness. Vercingetorix takes the field and again prepares to cross the trench. The Romans resume their previously established battlestations. 4. The Gauls hold the advantage fighting from a distance. The darkness causes confusion. However, when the Gauls came close, they fall onto the Roman defenses such as the lilies. The Roman legates, Mark Antony and Gaius Trebonius, call for reinforcements from other sectors. 5. The Gauls quit their attempt at dawn, out fear of being out flanked. 6. Vercingetorix again retires to Alesia.

184 VII: Mt. Rea The Gauls attack the Northern camp. 5. Ose r. Brenne r Mt DeFlavigny Mt. Pennevelle Oserain r.. The Gauls realize that the fortifications are not complete at the camp near Mt. Rea. This position is held by two legions under Gaius Antistius Reginus and Gaius Caninius Rebilus. The Gauls send 60,000 hand--picked troops, under the command of Vercassivellaunus, to Mt. Rea at night fall. He arrives at Mt. Rea at dawn and rests his troops. At noon the Gauls attack simultaneously at three points: Vercassivellaunus charges at the north. The Gallic cavalry charges the plain. Vercegetorix charges from his side. The reminder of the Gallic army draws up in front of their camp. Caesar holds a supreme vantage point in the south, which enables him to send reinforcements to the needy sectors. The Gauls are tearing apart the ramparts in the north and advancing on the camp in tortise formations. Caesar sends Labienus with six cohorts in support. Caesar moves to the the desperate points in the line and rallies his men. 4. Vercingetorix gives up hope of attacking the fortification on the plain and attacks the southern area. Caesar reinforces this sector with over fourteen cohorts; he leads some of the reinforcements himself. 5. The Gauls in the south are repulsed. Caesar took four cohorts and some cavalry to encircle the enemy in the north.

185 Final Hours of Alesia. Mt. Rea Labienus gathers eleven cohorts from the surrounding area, as the rampart gives way. The eleven new cohorts drop their javelins and charge with swords drawn. Caesar s cohorts attack from behind The Gauls attempt to flee but are cut off by the cavalry. Few remain of the original force of 60,000. VII: 87-88

186 5. Mt. Rea The Gauls attack the Northern camp. Brenne r. Ose r. Mt. Pennevelle 5. Mt DeFlavigny Oserain r.. Vercingetorix s forces flee within Aliesia. The relief army flees from camp. Caesar states that his forces were too exhausted to annihilate the Gauls. However, around midnight, Caesar sends his cavalry to cut down the rear guard. The Gauls retrun to their prespective tribes. The Gauls send representatives to Caesar, who demands their arms and their leaders. Caesar sits in front of the entrenchments and Vercingetorix is handed over. Caesar distributes the remainder of the captives to his men, except for the Aedui and the Averni. VII: 88-89

187 Caesar returnes 20,000 prisoners to both the Averni and the Aedui. Divison of the army: Two legions and cavalry with Labienus to the Sequani. Two legions under Gaius Fabius and Lucius Minucius Basilius to the Remi.. One legion under Gaius Carninius Rebilus to the Ruteni. 4. One legion under Quintus Tullius Cicero to Cabillonium. 5. One legion under Publius Sulpicius at Matisco for grain. 6. Two legions under Caesar at Bibracte. Rome declares a thanksgiving for 20 days. Agedincum VII: 90