On this day in 52 BC, the Gallic leader Vercingetorix surrendered to the Roman army led by Julius Caesar.

The decisive battle took place in the fortress city of Alesia, where Vercingetorix and his allies sought refuge. To prevent any escape or reinforcement, Caesar surrounded the city with an impressive network of fortifications. After weeks of siege, the defenders were weakened by hunger and lack of resources.

Even with the arrival of Gallic reinforcements, the attacks were repelled by Caesar's troops. Left with no alternatives, Vercingetorix surrendered in 52 BC, marking the end of the revolt. Tradition holds that he rode out of Alesia on horseback, wearing his armor, to surrender personally to Caesar. After his surrender, he was taken to Rome, where he was imprisoned for years until being executed in 46 BC during Caesar's triumph.

The surrender of Vercingetorix marked the end of Gallic resistance and secured Caesar's total control over Gaul. The victory not only brought immense wealth and fame but also strengthened his political position, helping him consolidate the power that would lead him to become dictator of Rome. Furthermore, the Romanization of Gaul initiated the process of integrating this vast region into the Roman Empire, transforming it into one of the most important provinces.