cover of episode 499. The Roman Conquest of Britain: Julius Caesar’s Invasion (Part 1)

499. The Roman Conquest of Britain: Julius Caesar’s Invasion (Part 1)

2024/9/29
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The Rest Is History

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Caesar's initial foray into Britain was a mix of triumph and disaster. While he successfully landed and engaged with local chieftains, logistical challenges and fierce weather hampered his progress. His return to Gaul, though presented as a strategic retreat, marked an end to the first campaign.
  • Caesar's first invasion occurred in 55 BC.
  • Logistical issues and storms forced Caesar's retreat.
  • The invasion was seen as a success in Rome, leading to 20 days of public thanksgiving.

Shownotes Transcript

Julius Caesar saw the Britons as brutal savages. Yet the Romans romanticised their lack of civilisation, deeming them as untainted by Mediterranean luxury. In 55 BC, after sending scouts along the Kentish coast, Caesar launched an invasion of the island as part of his Gallic Wars campaign. After a disastrous first attempt marred by storms, the “menacing horde of barbarians” of the English Home Counties asked Caesar for help and he returned with a bigger, stronger army to support their prince. Will this campaign succeed?

Join Tom and Dominic as they explore Caesar’s invasion of Britain and how it entered the orbit of the great imperial power.


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