Ambiorix

Family: Eburones · Role: leader · First appears: The Gallic War, Book V, 23–28

In Book V of the Gallic War, Ambiorix and Cativolcus launched a revolt against Rome after being encouraged by Indutiomarus. They attacked the Roman camp, then Ambiorix persuaded Q. Titurius Sabinus and L. Aurunculeius Cotta to leave their winter quarters, warning that a large German force was approaching. His forces ambushed the departing Romans; as Sabinus spoke with him, Ambiorix pledged that no harm would come to him, then had him gradually surrounded and slain. Cotta refused to confer with an armed enemy. Ambiorix later urged the Nervii to attack the Romans and offered to help cut off the legion wintering with Quintus Tullius Cicero.

In Book VI, Caesar crossed the Rhine so Ambiorix could not find refuge among the Germans, then set out against him when the corn began to ripen. Lucius Minucius Basilus surprised Ambiorix, who escaped death and ordered his people to provide for themselves. He evaded pursuit through forests and hiding places, travelling by night with only four horsemen. In Book VIII, Caesar ravaged Ambiorix’s territory and sought to prevent his return.