Though the absence of beer in Caesar’s commentaries has led some to believe that Caesar’s men did not consume beer, Julius Caesar’s reliance on auxiliary forces to advance in the North ensured that cultures known for producing beer influenced legionary forces reliant on local resources to survive. In order to maintain loyalty from his auxiliary troops and to keep his legions sufficiently fueled, beer must have played a role in Caesar’s success.

Travis Rupp takes a deep dive into this unique tale in beer history.

Travis Rupp, aka the Beer Archaeologist, is a Professor of Classics, Art History, Anthropology at the University of Colorado, Boulder. He serves on the National Advisory Board for the Chicago Brewseum.