A Gallic tribe, the Senones, led by Brennus, attacked the Romans under Quintus Sulpicius, on July 16, 390 B.C., at the Allia river. After a crushing defeat, some Romans retreated to the Capitoline Hill, while others fled the city. The Gauls destroyed much of the city of Rome during their several month long stay but couldn't breach the Capitol. The story is that one night when the Celts were trying to attack, the watchdogs remained silent, but the geese started raising a ruckus, awakening all those who were needed for defense. In commemoration of this legendary event (Livy Ab urbe condita 5.47), every year on August 3, the Romans are said to have crucified a dog and paraded the sacred geese in honor.

• Battle of the Allia
• Major Defeats
• Liv. 5.47

(Brennus image © Clipart.com)