What historical event fascinates you the most?

The devastation of Pompey resulting from the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A D has fascinated me since I first learned of it. The images of its residents frozen in time made them victims to me, not long lost faceless humans. I felt a connection to those fleeing the terror of the eruption. It was all to clear they were fully aware they were doomed. No one, man or beast escaped the wrath of Vesuvius.