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Claudius’s Invasion Was Political Propaganda
- Claudius invaded Britain in AD 43 largely as a propaganda move to gain prestige after becoming emperor.
- The invasion used a pretext and relied on shaming troops reluctant to cross the sea into action.
Roman Sources Need Archaeological Balance
- Our main textual sources are Roman: Caesar, Cassius Dio and Tacitus, and they mix reliable campaigning detail with propaganda.
- Archaeology, especially coin evidence, provides independent data that refines the Roman picture.
Early Roman Campaigns Were Fast And Theatrical
- The AD 43 invasion landed unopposed, enabling rapid inland advances and decisive battles at the Medway and Thames.
- Claudius staged a short triumphal visit to Colchester to secure submissions and hostages rather than long occupation.