The river of no return

The river of no return


Thanks to Vitalik Buterin for noticing that I missed the most original and crucial case! That is, Caesar crossed the Rubicon River, “alea iacta est”, the era of the Roman Republic is coming to an end.

The destiny moment

In human history, there has always been a river of no return.

It is waiting for someone with enough courage, determination, and perseverance to step over. The man who crossed the river became the ruler.

Caesar crossing the Rubicon

“The river of no return” originated from Caesar’s crossing of the Rubicon in early January 49 BC. According to the law of the Roman Republic at the time, a general leading an army across the Rubicon would be considered a rebel.

Rubicon River

Rubicon River Rubicon River But Caesar did not hesitate, he led his army across the river to start a civil war, and uttered the phrase “alea iacta est” (the die has been cast). This is what we call “passing a point of no return” today.

He defeated Pompey and became Dictator perpetuo, ultimately pushing the end to the Roman Republic.

Julius Caesar

Other famous river-crossing cases

Battle of Marengo

Napoleon crossed the Alps and made a surprise attack on the rear of the Austrian army. Victory in this battle changed the fate of France and Europe forever.

Battle of Marengo

War Map

Napoleon Crossing the Alps

Battle of Chishui River

During the Long March, Mao Zedong unexpectedly crossed the Chishui River four times and jumped out of the encirclement of KMT.

This victory ensured the survival of CCP army and established the People’s Republic of China in 1949.

War Map

Mao Zedong

The final war

Today, there is no doubt that humanity is waging a war. The target of this war is no longer a particular nation or opponent, but the eternal enemy of mankind - death, space, and fundamental science.

We’re waiting for someone to cross this crucial river and eventually bring us a significant victory.