BattlefieldsMons Graupius Chariot Engagement 83 AD
Roman Period

Mons Graupius Chariot Engagement 83 AD

83
Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Also known as: Caledonian chariot charge at Mons Graupius · Battle of Mons Graupius chariot phase
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Caledonian chariot forces
Forces
Caledonian chariotry and footmen
VS
Victor
Rome (Agricola)
Forces
Roman auxiliary cohorts (Batavians, Tungrians)
Outcome
Caledonian chariot charge on the plain neutralised by Roman cavalry before infantry engagement began
The Battle

History & Significance

Tacitus gives detailed tactical description of Mons Graupius. The Caledonian chariots charged on the plain between the two armies but were driven back by Roman cavalry before the main infantry assault. The Roman auxiliaries then advanced up the slope, refusing to commit the legions. The Caledonian formation broke when Roman cavalry rode around the flanks and struck the rear.

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