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The African War

Julius Caesar

An account of Caesar's military campaign in North Africa, attributed to him and possibly finished by another writer.

This account, attributed to Caesar, records his military campaign in North Africa after the civil war.

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About this source

What it is

This English translation describes Caesar's campaign in North Africa. It is attributed to Caesar, though scholars believe it may have been completed by another writer, possibly Aulus Hirtius or Gaius Oppius.

Why it matters

This text records one of the later wars Caesar fought to secure control after his conflict with Pompey. It shows Caesar's methods as a commander, including his urgency and discipline in preparing for battle, and offers insight into how his campaigns were documented for later readers.

Look closer

  • What does the description of Caesar pitching his tent near the sea tell you about his leadership style?
  • Why might this account have been finished by someone other than Caesar himself?
  • How might the purpose of this text — to record a military campaign — shape what it includes or leaves out?

This book is part of the curated material that grounds the AI version of Julius Caesar on Humy.ai — when students ask about related events, the AI can quote it and cite it.

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Primary source

Commentarii de Bello Gallico

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Secondary source

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Primary source

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