Titus Labienus

AncientGeneralRoman Republic-100 — -45

Caesar top lieutenant who defected to Pompey.

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Quick Facts

Born

100 BCE

Died

45 BCE

Country

Roman Republic

Era

Ancient

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)72

Political (20%)32

Influence (20%)51

Legacy (20%)46

Leadership (15%)30

Strategy (15%)61

Total Score46.8

Titus Labienus — Complete Timeline

58 BC

Service as Caesar's Legate in GaulWar◆ Major

Labienus served as Caesar's senior legate during the Gallic Wars. He commanded key victories, including the defeat of the Treveri and the relief of Quintus Cicero's camp during the revolt of the Nervii.

Gallic WarsMilitary CommandCaesar

Impact: regional

49 BC

Defection to Pompey at the Start of Civil WarPolitical Action

When Caesar crossed the Rubicon, Labienus defected to the Pompeian side. He abandoned Caesar's camp and joined the Optimates, becoming one of their most capable commanders. This was a major blow to Caesar.

Roman Civil WarDefectionPompey

Impact: national

48 BC

Battle of PharsalusWar◆ Major

Labienus commanded the Pompeian cavalry at Pharsalus. He was defeated by Caesar's forces and fled the battlefield. After the defeat, he continued to resist Caesar's forces in Africa and Spain.

Roman Civil WarBattleDefeat

Impact: regionaltragic

45 BC

Battle of MundaWar◆ Major

Labienus commanded the Pompeian forces at the Battle of Munda in Spain. He was killed in the battle, which ended the last major resistance against Caesar. His death marked the final defeat of the Optimates.

Roman Civil WarBattleDeath

Impact: regionaltragic