Troops Lost a War Because They Ignored Chicken Omens

According to archives from the US Naval Institute, in 249 BC, Publius Claudius Pulcher was appointed consul and Roman military commander during the First Punic War.

In ancient Rome, there was a tradition of consulting omens, specifically through chickens. Sacred chickens were brought aboard Roman warships, released, and given food. If they ate eagerly, it was considered a good omen. Conversely, if they refused to eat, it was seen as a bad sign.

Claudius disregarded this tradition. He threw the chickens overboard and even ordered them to be given seawater to drink.

“Since they won’t eat, let them drink!” Claudius declared.

Despite this act, Claudius proceeded with deploying his fleet into battle. The ensuing battle was a complete disaster for his forces. A total of 93 out of 123 ships were sunk, and many soldiers were captured by the enemy.

Following the defeat, Claudius was recalled to Rome, where he was put on trial for incompetence and impiety. He was accused of ignoring the bad omens indicated by the chickens.

He was initially sentenced to death or flogging, but the punishment was reduced to a fine to cover the losses of the Roman ships sunk during the battle.

Shortly after his release, Claudius died. The exact date of his death is unknown. The story of Claudius became popular and serves as an example of how important omens were in ancient Rome, even if their accuracy was purely coincidental. (rdp/imk)