The Battle of Pharsalus (48 BC): Caesar, Pompey and their Final Clash in the Third Roman Civil War [Hardcover]

Gareth Sampson examines the campaigns which led up to the battle as well as the role played by the various regional powers who got drawn into the Roman Civil War.In August 48 BC, following the earlier battle at Dyrrhachium, the two greatest Roman commanders of their generation met in battle again at Pharsalus in Greece. Julius Caesar, conqueror of Gaul, had been defeated at Dyrrhachium and forced to retreat but now stood at bay to face Pompey the Great, conqueror of the East. At stake lay the future of the ailing Roman Republic, each man believing he alone had the solution to restoring Republican government.Gareth Sampson examines the campaigns which led up to the battle as well as the role played by the various regional powers who got drawn into the Roman Civil War. The Battle of Pharsalus itself is analyzed in detail to determine the strengths and weakness of both armies and their various commanders, as well as the organization, equipment and tactics of the forces involved in the battle which culminated in a decisive victory for Caesar. The author concludes with consideration of the aftermath of the battle, which saw Pompey murdered in Egypt and Caesar distracted by the affairs of the East.Gareth Sampson examines the campaigns which led up to the battle as well as the role played by the various regional powers who got drawn into the Roman Civil War.The Battle of Pharsalus in 48 BC was the final clash between former allies Caesar and Pompey, the two most renowned leaders of their time.Analyses the impact of the battle on the wider civil war and how Caesar failed to convert this win into a lasting victory.This was Caesars first major victory over other Roman forces and arguably the severest test of his generalship.Gareth Sampson offers detailed analysis of the moves and countermoves, with Caesars resight and innovative tactics neutralizing Pompeys cavalry superiority.The strategic context of the battle as well as details of the weapons, organization and tactics olSk