Spartacus, a Thracian slave who had served as a gladiator, finally decided enough was enough. Along with 70 fellow prisoners at Capua, he and…
Spartacus, a Thracian slave who had served as a gladiator, finally decided enough was enough. Along with 70 fellow prisoners at Capua, he and some 70 accomplices broke free and fled into the countryside where they ambushed Roman troops while freeing more slaves and gathering weapons and supplies before routing a squadron of soldiers sent after them before ultimately finding sanctuary on Vesuvius where its crater provided both protection from soldiers as well as food supplies.
Though little is known about Spartacus himself, historians know something of his Third Servile War leadership. Spartacus led an alliance composed of Thracians, Celts and Germans against Rome’s power and influence; his war brought together disparate followers into an effective force. A charismatic leader with courageous conviction who knew when and why more men would need joining his cause; smart enough to realize this fact early enough for the battle ahead.
Once rebel forces had amassed an army, Rome sent an expeditionary force against them under Lucius Gellius Publicola and Gnaeus Cornelius Lentulus Clodianus respectively who each led two legions.
Spartacus was aware of his opponents’ insurrection being pitted against Rome’s vast military strength, yet still managed to convince his men they would prevail. He pointed out how much of Italy was defenseless – vast pasturelands with slave shepherds tending their flocks; these hardy people were used to fighting off wild animals or occasional bandits and could provide the foundation of an effective insurgent force if properly trained and coordinated with.
Spartacus also urged his followers to remain united. Although his grandiose visions included seizing control of Italy and overthrowing Praetor Varinius and his army, Spartacus knew his insurgents were still not prepared to meet Varinius head on and therefore pointed out Vesuvius’ pastures as an effective place to gather recruits.
Once they reached Vesuvius, the fugitives camped and began plotting their next move. Spartacus attempted to draw Roman soldiers into a trap by showing that his band outnumbered those from Rome by far; thus forming three groups under three leaders: Spartacus headed the Thracians; Crixus oversaw Celts; Oenomaus headed Germans – each working towards strengthening themselves but each with different areas of expertise. Meanwhile, more freedmen joined them as they marched across Italy – creating an ever growing force of their own that rivaled Rome itself!