08-09-2007, 07:24 PM
Looking at it from a "turning point" philosophy, I would rate the Teutenborg disaster, losing three whole legions, as a very important kick in the teeth. Do not forget the Romans until then had looked upon the locals as barbarians not capable of standing up to the might of Rome. The Varus-slacht (Varsus massacre) proved them very wrong, the barbarian calling the terrain and forcing the Romans into a fight on very unfavorable terrain for their proved tactics. This must have shaken their confidence to the core. It was also a resounding defeat at a high point in Roman expansion, forcing a rethink of strategy and giving rise to the fortification of the Limes in Germany and Holland, creating a static border for the first time. Other (later) expansions were "bought" by enticing local troops to side with them to victory. As a defeat it most definitely comes high in the ranks, in my opinion.
