BattlefieldsCrossing of the Thames (43 AD)
Roman Period

Crossing of the Thames (43 AD)

43
Kent, England
Also known as: Battle of the Thames Crossing · Roman Thames Assault
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Kent, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Catuvellauni (Caratacus)
Forces
Catuvellauni: c. 15,000–20,000
VS
Victor
Rome (Aulus Plautius)
Forces
Rome: c. 20,000
Outcome
Romans crossed the Thames; Togodumnus died of wounds; Caratacus fled northwest
The Battle

History & Significance

After the decisive Medway crossing, Plautius pursued the British to the Thames. Batavian auxiliaries again swam across. Togodumnus — Caratacus's brother — died shortly after this engagement. Plautius halted here, summoning Emperor Claudius himself to lead the final advance to Camulodunum. The precise crossing point is debated — Southwark, Brentford, and Wallingford have all been proposed.

Casualties & Losses

Togodumnus mortally wounded; heavy British losses

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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