Battle of Pharsalus
48 BCE · Pharsalus (Thessaly) · World · Ancient
Caesar placed a hidden fourth line of infantry specifically to break Pompey's cavalry charge, then rolled up the flank of Pompey's infantry, routing it.
Belligerents
Caesarians
- Commanders
- Julius Caesar
- Strength
- About 22,000 legionaries
Senatorial party
- Commanders
- Pompey
- Strength
- About 45,000 infantry and much cavalry
Background
The decisive battle of the civil war in which Caesar and Pompey contended for hegemony over Rome.
Course of the battle
- Cavalry chargePompey launched an all-out assault on Caesar's right wing with his superior cavalry.
- Hidden reserveCaesar's hidden fourth line of infantry thrust with their spears and drove off the cavalry.
- Roll up the flankCaesar rolled up the flank of Pompey's infantry, causing a collapse along the whole line.
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 48 BCE |
|---|---|
| Place | Pharsalus (Thessaly) |
| Result | Caesar placed a hidden fourth line of infantry specifically to break Pompey's cavalry charge, then rolled up the flank of Pompey's infantry, routing it. |
| Winner | Caesarians |
| Casualties | Pompey's army suffered heavy losses and many surrendered; Pompey fled to Egypt, where he was killed. |
| Territorial change | Caesar took real power in Rome, and the outcome of the civil war was settled. |
Impact
The key battle that decided Rome's path from republic to personal dictatorship.
See the world in 48 BCE on the map →