Bibracte (58) |
The battle of Bibracte was the first battle in the Gallic war and took place in Gaul in 58 BC. Julius Caesar led the Romans and 6 legions against Helvetii. The Helvetii were planning on crossing into Roman territory when Caesar caught word of their plans and took his legion to prevent that from happening. The Helvetii chose an alternate route and ravaged the land of the Aedui, who were Roman allies. The Aeduans asked the Romans for help and they did not hesitate. Caesar took his troops to Bibracte to be fed but was attacked by Helvetii. The Romans pushed the Helvetii up another mountain and after fighting into the night, the Romans finally gained control of the Helvetii's camp. Helvetii had no other option than to surrender after losing 238,000 men compared to the 5,000 lost Romans. Caesar then ordered the Helvetii and their allies back to their territories. |