Testing the Weapons of Julius Caesar's British Invasion Army | With Ray Mears

History Hit13 minutes read

Caesar's Roman army faced intense resistance from British warriors in Kent before successfully landing and defeating them, using advanced military tactics and weapons to secure their victory. The Roman soldiers' bravery and strategic use of weapons and engineering ultimately led to their triumph in the only contested landing in British history.

Insights

  • Caesar's invasion of Britain near Deal in Kent was met with fierce resistance from British warriors, including nobles in chariots, leading to a challenging fight for the Romans to establish a foothold on the shore.
  • The Roman victory, achieved through bravery, strategic tactics, and advanced weaponry like stabbing swords and javelins, marked the only successful contested landing in British history, showcasing the effectiveness of Roman military prowess and engineering innovations.

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Recent questions

  • Where did Caesar's invasion likely occur?

    Near Deal in Kent

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Summary

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Caesar's Invasion: Romans Triumph in Britain

  • Caesar's invasion point is uncertain, likely near Deal in Kent, with Britons awaiting them.
  • British warriors, including nobles in chariots, are ready to repel Romans on the shore.
  • Caesar describes Roman soldiers hesitating due to deep water, but a soldier's bravery spurs them on.
  • Romans faced a challenging fight to land, deploying galleys and overcoming Britons' resistance.
  • Romans eventually win the day after a full-on fight, marking the only successful contested landing in British history.
  • Roman soldiers wielded stabbing swords and shields effectively in battle against Britons.
  • Javelins were crucial in slowing down enemy charges, allowing Romans to advance and close in quickly.
  • Roman soldiers' diet included meat, dried meals, unleavened bread, and a sour wine-like drink called puska.
  • Roman engineering, like ballistas and catapults, played a key role in their military success, demonstrating impressive firepower.
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