509 BC

In 509 BC, Rome, after expelling King Tarquinius Superbus, faced an Etruscan invasion led by the deposed king and his allies, Tarquinii and Veii. The Roman consuls, Brutus and Publicola, led the defense. A major battle occurred near Silva Arsia. Brutus was killed, but Publicola rallied the Romans, leading to an Etruscan defeat and Tarquinius's retreat, securing the early Roman Republic.