Page "Claudius" Paragraph 17

In 43, Claudius sent Aulus Plautius with four legions to Britain ( Britannia ) after an appeal from an ousted tribal ally.

Britain was an attractive target for Rome because of its material wealth — particularly mines and slaves.

It was also a haven for Gallic rebels and the like, and so could not be left alone much longer.

Claudius himself travelled to the island after the completion of initial offensives, bringing with him reinforcements and elephants.

The latter must have made an impression on the Britons when they were displayed in the large tribal centre of Camulodunum.