Eleven thousand Samaritans massacred due to a lack of water

In the first century, Emperor Vespasian sent the legate Cerialis to suppress the Samaritans suspected of rebellious intentions. Roman troops surrounded Mount Gerizim and cut off access to water for the besieged population. Weakened by thirst and refusing to lay down their arms, 11,600 Samaritans were put to the sword.