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Gergovia (52 BC)

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Title
Gergovia (52 BC)
Description
Julius Caesar had conquered Gaul in just six years of campaigning (58-53 BC). However, in 52 BC most of the tribes of Gaul rose in a general revolt. Vercingetorix, a chieftain of the Averni, became overall commander of the rebel …
Publisher
Date
-52
Scenario#
308
Scenario Description
Julius Caesar had conquered Gaul in just six years of campaigning (58-53 BC). However, in 52 BC most of the tribes of Gaul rose in a general revolt. Vercingetorix, a chieftain of the Averni, became overall commander of the rebel forces. Vercingetorix adopted an effective strategy of defending fortified towns in conjunction with scorched earth tactics to deny the Romans supplies. In response, Caesar assaulted and captured Avaricum. Next he marched against the Gallic army at Gergovia, Vercingetorix’ hometown. Gergovia was situated on a particularly steep, high mount, making it a difficult position to attack. Caesar wanted to bring Vercingetorix into an open battle and stop the Gallic raids, so he set up a large camp for his six legions and built a small camp near the terraced approach to Gergovia. After sending a small force to make a feint away from the town, drawing off many of Vercingetorix’ troops, Caesar ordered his legions and allied troops to climb the hill and attack the enemy camps in front of the city. The Romans overcame the stone wall (represented by broken ground terrain hexes) at the base of the hill and moved forward to capture the enemy camps. The Gallic reinforcements hurried to the scene and drove the Roman troops back in fierce fighting. The barbarian advance was only checked by the 10th Legion that was held in reserve. The Romans reported the loss of 46 centurions and 700 troops of all nationalities killed, and another 6,000 wounded. Gergovia was the only major battle that Caesar lost during his conquest of Gaul. The following day, Caesar attempted to offer battle again but could not induce Vercingetorix to descend from his hilltop position. Having failed to achieve his objective, Caesar withdrew.
Location
Gergovia, France
Battle Name
Battle Narrative
The Battle of Gergovia took place in 52 BC in Gaul at Gergovia, the chief oppidum of the Arverni. The battle was fought between a Roman Republican army, led by proconsul Julius Caesar, and Gallic forces led by Vercingetorix, who was also the Arverni chieftain. The Gauls won the battle.
Narrative Source
Combatants
Gaul
Roman
Additional Information
Gallic Wars

Geolocation