Frumentum Caesaris

The Logistics of the Roman Civil War

Abstract

Managing logistics is an important aspect of leadership as any operation is doomed to fail if adequate supplies are not secured. This is especially true for the ancient world, as supplies could not be moved around as easily as they can in modern times. Logistics became an important aspect of the Roman civil war as the pre-existing logistical system was divided between the two military factions: the Caesarians and the Pompeians. Logistics thus became a key element of Caesar’s strategy and demonstrates his capability as a leader. This paper examines how the Roman logistical system operated and the intricate relationship of logistics and strategy to determine that Caesar built his strategy during the war around his understanding of logistics in order to use supply lines as a weapon against his enemies.