BattlefieldsBattle of the Medway (43 AD)
Roman Period

Battle of the Medway (43 AD)

43
Kent, England
Also known as: Battle of River Medway 43 AD · Medway Crossing Claudian
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Kent, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Catuvellauni (Caratacus / Togodumnus)
Forces
Catuvellauni: c. 15,000–20,000.
VS
Victor
Romans (Aulus Plautius / Vespasian)
Forces
Romans: c. 20,000–25,000
Outcome
Romans crossed the Medway after two days of fighting; British confederation broken
The Battle

History & Significance

The decisive battle of the Claudian invasion, fought over two days at a crossing on the Medway near modern Rochester or Aylesford. Auxiliary troops swam the river in armour to attack British war-chariots from the flank; the future emperor Vespasian led a brilliant flanking attack. Togodumnus was mortally wounded. The battle opened the road to the Thames and ultimately to Camulodunum.

Casualties & Losses

Significant losses on both sides over two days

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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