In this episode, Ray provides a recap of the Batavian revolt, catching listeners up on the actions of Julius Civilis (disrespectfully nicknamed "Syphilis" for easier recall), a Batavian noble leading the uprising against Rome during the civil war of 69 AD. Civilis, despite a long history of service to Rome, sees an opportunity to gain revenge, liberty for his tribe, and potentially leadership by aligning with Vespasian against Vitellius. He initially deceives the Roman commander of the Rhine Army, Marcus Hordeonius Flaccus ("Flaccid"), pretending to quell unrest while actually building his forces. Civilis amasses roughly 15,000 Roman-trained troops and besieges the crucial Roman fort of Vetera Castra, demanding its garrison swear allegiance to Vespasian, which they refuse. The Batavians, skilled in Roman tactics, attempt various siege methods, including towers and ladders, but are repelled by the Romans' superior engineering and a particularly inventive crane-like machine described by Tacitus. Flaccus fails to secure reinforcements from Gaul due to the ongoing rebellion there. Civilis rallies his troops, emphasizing they have nothing to lose in their fight for freedom, and launches another attack, during which he is unhorsed, leading to rumors of his death and a temporary Batavian retreat. Civilis, however, is not dead and vows to return.
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