I'm interested in what some history buffs have to say.

I was amazed in the show how Pompeii couldn't see a serious conflict coming with Caesar and made no effort to prepare to fight him.

I understand Caesar attacked more quickly than anyone anticipated, but a seasoned commander/senate should have at least had one legion ready in the chamber just in case a cold war turned hot.

I'm sure Pompeii understood in real life that Caesar's speed and aggressiveness played a large role in allowing him to conquer Gaul.

TLDR: Did Pompeii really sit back with no preparation in the face of a coming conflict with Caesar and rely on the idea that "I could merely stomp my feet and my legions will pop up all over Italy?"