BattlefieldsCaesar First Invasion — Landing in Kent 55 BC
Roman Period

Caesar First Invasion — Landing in Kent 55 BC

-55
Kent, England
Also known as: Caesar 55 BC landing · Julius Caesar lands in Kent
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Kent, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
British Cantii warriors
Forces
British Cantii c. 4,000–6,000
VS
Victor
Romans (Julius Caesar)
Forces
Romans c. 7,000–8,000
Outcome
Caesar landed against opposition; repulsed first at cliffs; waded ashore under javelin cover; British driven back
The Battle

History & Significance

Julius Caesar's first invasion of Britain in August 55 BC landed on the Kent coast — probably between Deal and Walmer. The initial landing site was abandoned because the cliffs were held by British warriors; Caesar moved to a shelving beach nearby. His troops had to jump into the sea in full armour and wade to shore against British cavalry and chariots — a famous episode in which the aquilifer of Legio X jumped first to shame the others. The landing was secured but the campaign was inconclusive; storms wrecked his fleet and he withdrew to Gaul.

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