Aulus Plautius

Aulus Plautius was a Roman general who led the Roman invasion of Britain in 43 CE under Emperor Claudius. His well-equipped army of approximately 40,000 soldiers landed in Kent and advanced towards the Thames River.1

The invasion was prompted by Claudius's desire for military prestige and the actions of Caratacus and Togodumnus, sons of the pro-Roman prince Cunobelinus, who had expelled a Roman client king and were blamed for raids on Gaul. Plautius's strategy initially focused on conquering the lowlands of southern and eastern Britain, which were relatively easy to subdue.1

However, progress was significantly delayed by a major revolt in 60-61 CE led by Queen Boudicca of the Iceni tribe, during which Roman settlements were destroyed. Despite this setback, Roman control was eventually extended, and Roman culture began to spread throughout the conquered territories.12