Ok we all know Raptor covers WWII and he does a fine job of that. I'd like to cover the Ancient history side of things. Might make this a monthly thing if people like it. The Battle of Teutoburg Forest : [quote]"Quintilius Varus, give me back my legions!"[/quote] Taking place in 9 C.E. (common era) the barbarian Germanic factions and tribes united to repel the invading legions of the Roman Empire. Their strength is unknown but it was most certainly in the tens of thousands. The Roman army lead by Publius Quinctilius Varus were drawn deep into the forest. Their numbers matched if not exceeded those of the Germans. In a straight on fight the Romans would have the advantage, with better trained troops, better armour and weaponry. However the soldiers lacked experience. The line of troops were marching out of formation and was dangerously long at 15-10km it was at this time a hail of javelins were unleashed upon the unsuspecting Romans. The Germans attacked from all sides with light weaponry, harassing them with the aid of the weather and muddy track for a day. The Roman forces attempted a breakout at night, but fell into yet another trap, a massacre. Roman officers were seen to commit suicide on the field while one noteworthy legionary fought along side his doomed troops to the end. ( Praefectus Eggius) Although there were future successful invasions of Germany by the armies of Rome, they never again broke through the extended lines. Roman casualties have been estimated at 15,000–20,000 dead