Britannia AD 43: The Claudian Invasion

The Romans invaded Britain in AD 43 under the command of Aulus Plautius Silvanus with an army of four veteran legions and auxiliary units. The invasion force refused to embark at Gessoriacum but eventually sailed in three contingents, laying the foundations for the Roman conquest.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In this captivating and meticulously illustrated book, Nic Fields delves into the intricate details of the Roman invasion that laid the foundation for their presence in Britain. He unravels the compelling story of how and why the initial Claudian invasion succeeded, and its profound implications for the future of the island. For the Romans, Britannia stood as a distant and enigmatic land beyond the familiar boundaries of the Mediterranean world, where classical civilization had flourished. The island possessed an air of dangerous mystique, adding an extra layer of intrigue to its allure. To the soldiers who embarked on the perilous journey across the Oceanus Britannicus in the late summer of AD 43, the prospect of invading an island considered to be on the periphery must have been a blend of fear and excitement. These brave men were part of a formidable army, consisting of four seasoned legions (II Augusta, VII Hispana, XIIII Gemina, and XX Valeria), meticulously assembled under the command of Aulus Plautius Silvanus. Among them were notable legionary commanders, including the future emperor Titus Flavius Vespasianus. With the support of auxiliary units, the total invasion force likely numbered around 40,000 men. However, upon their arrival at Gessoriacum (Boulogne), the troops refused to embark, creating a mutinous atmosphere. It took considerable effort to dispel this resistance, but eventually, the invasion fleet sailed in three contingents. Ninety-seven years after Caius Julius Caesar, the Roman army landed in southeastern Britannia. Following a swift and successful summer campaign, a province was established, spanning a frontier zone that extended from what is now Lyme Bay on the Dorset coast to the Humber estuary. Although the territory conquered during the initial campaign season may have been modest, it laid the groundwork for the Roman conquest that would soon sweep across Britannia. This invasion marked a significant milestone in the history of the Roman Empire, as it expanded its influence and dominance beyond the Mediterranean realm. The establishment of a province in southeastern Britannia provided a solid foundation for further expansion and development, laying the groundwork for the Roman occupation that would endure for centuries. The Claudian invasion not only opened up new trade routes and resources but also facilitated cultural exchange and integration between the Romans and the indigenous Britons. Over time, the Roman presence in Britain evolved and diversified, leading to the development of a complex and diverse society. The Romans brought with them their own language, laws, and customs, which gradually influenced and shaped the local culture. They built impressive structures, such as roads, bridges, and aqueducts, that facilitated trade and communication throughout the island. They also introduced advanced agricultural techniques, which helped to improve the productivity of the land and support the growing population. However, the Roman occupation was not without its challenges. The indigenous Britons, who had their own distinct culture and traditions, often resisted the Roman rule. There were conflicts and rebellions, particularly in the early years of the invasion. However, the Roman army was well-trained and disciplined, and they were able to suppress these uprisings with relative ease. Over time, the Romans also learned to respect and appreciate the local culture, and they incorporated elements of it into their own society. This led to a blending of Roman and British traditions, creating a unique and dynamic cultural landscape that would endure for centuries. In conclusion, the Claudian invasion of AD 43 was a pivotal moment in the history of Britain. It marked the beginning of a long and complex relationship between the Romans and the Britons, which would ultimately shape the course of the island's development. Through their military conquests and cultural exchange, the Romans left a lasting legacy that continues to be felt today. This book provides a valuable insight into the events that led to the Roman occupation of Britain, and it sheds light on the rich and complex history that unfolded in the years that followed.

Weight: 314g
Dimension: 186 x 248 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472842077