Battle of Vesuvius

The Battle of Vesuvius (340 BC), also known as the Battle of the Veseris, was the first recorded battle of the Latin War, fought near Mount Vesuvius between the Romans and their Samnite allies against a coalition of Latins, Campanians, Volsci, Sidicini, and Aurunci. The sources focus primarily on the Romans, led by consuls Titus Manlius Torquatus and Publius Decius Mus, and the Latins. The battle is notable for two episodes: Manlius Torquatus executed his own son, Titus Manlius, for disobeying orders by engaging in single combat with a Latin champion, Geminus Maecius, despite winning the duel. Additionally, Decius Mus sacrificed himself by devoting himself and the enemy army to the gods of the underworld before charging into battle and being slain.

Before the battle, both consuls had a dream indicating that Roman victory would require one consul’s death. They agreed that whichever side engaged first would lead to the other’s sacrifice. Decius’ forces on the left opened the battle, and he was killed in the front lines. Manlius then led his right wing to victory, routing much of the Latin army. Despite heavy Roman losses, nearly three-fourths of the Latin army was killed or captured, with the remainder fleeing. However, the severity of Roman casualties prevented a pursuit.

The Latin and Campanian armies had been stationed in Capua, prompting Rome to send both consuls to Campania to confront the threat collectively.