Spartacus: March on Rome or Escape Over Alps (73 BCE)
by Anonymous
After defeating multiple Roman armies, Spartacus and his slave army had to choose between marching on Rome itself or escaping over the Alps to freedom. He chose to stay and fight — and eventually lost.
Stay in Italy and Fight
73-71 BCE
year
Defeat Rome or negotiate
objective
Facing Rome's full military might
risk
Chosen — eventually defeated by Crassus
outcome
Escape Over the Alps
73 BCE
year
Freedom for escaped slaves
objective
Difficult crossing, uncertain reception
risk
Attempted once, army refused to leave Italy
outcome
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