The consul Gellius attacks the German rebel faction and soundly defeats them.
At the same time Lentulus attacks the rebel force led by Spartacus and sees his officers defeated.
In the spring of 72 B.C. the rebels again move north.
- The praetor Cassius attacks Spartacus with 10,000 men and is defeated at Mutina(?).
Meanwhile, an angry Senate gives Crassus the job of defeating Spartacus.
- Stationed at Picenum, Crassus sends his lieutenant Mummius with two legions to observe and not attack the rebels. Spartacus is able to draw Mummius into battle and the Romans are routed.