The Latins were led by an elderly Lucius Tarquinius Superbus, the seventh and last King of Rome, who had been expelled in 509 BC, and his son-in-law, Octavius Mamilius, the dictator of Tusculum.

[2] The threat of invasion by Rome's former allies in Latium led to the appointment of Aulus Postumius Albus as dictator.

[citation needed] According to Livy, the Volsci (a neighbouring tribe to the south of Latium) had raised troops to send to the aid of the Latins against Rome; however, the haste of the Roman dictator in joining battle meant that the Volscian forces did not arrive in time.

[7] The dictator Postumius led the Roman infantry, while Titus Aebutius Elva was Magister Equitum (Master of the Horse).

[8][9] A popular legend reported that the Dioscuri, Castor and Pollux, fought alongside the Romans, transfigured as two young horsemen.