July 57 BC · Belgica (modern Belgium) Theater
July 57 BC
The Nervii were the most warlike of the Belgian tribes, despising the wine and luxury goods the other Belgians traded with Rome and famously hostile to any accommodation. Caesar marched north to subdue Belgica but was ambushed at the Sambre River while his legions were still making camp. The Nervii had concealed their warriors in the forest across the river and attacked before the Romans could form their battle line. For a time the situation was catastrophic: the 12th Legion's standard-bearers were surrounded and being cut down, and Caesar — fighting in the ranks himself — later admitted the battle was nearly lost. He personally grabbed a shield, pushed to the front, and steadied the line. Labienus, having captured the Nervian camp on the other side of the field, sent two legions back to Caesar's aid. The Nervii fought to annihilation rather than flee.
Commanders