Quick Facts
The Roman general who conquered much of modern-day Wales and northern England during his governorship of Britain.
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Life Journey
Gnaeus Julius Agricola was born into a wealthy and influential family. His father, Julius Graecinus, was a senator and a Stoic philosopher, which likely influenced Agricola's education and values.
Agricola begins his military service in Britain under the governorship of Gaius Suetonius Paulinus, where he gains valuable experience in military tactics and leadership.
Agricola marries Domitia Decidiana, a woman from a prominent Roman family, which strengthens his social and political connections in Rome.
Agricola is appointed as a military tribune in Britain, a position that allows him to gain further military experience and leadership skills under the command of various governors.
Agricola is elected to the Roman Senate, marking the beginning of his political career and his ascent into the upper echelons of Roman governance.
Agricola is appointed as the governor of Aquitania, a region in southwestern Gaul, where he administers the province with efficiency and fairness, earning a reputation for his administrative skills.
Agricola is appointed governor of Britain and begins a campaign to conquer Wales, successfully subduing the Welsh tribes and expanding Roman control in the region.
Agricola defeats the Ordovices, a powerful Welsh tribe, solidifying Roman control over Wales and demonstrating his military prowess.
Agricola launches a campaign to conquer northern England, pushing the Roman frontier further north and subduing the Brigantes and other local tribes.
Agricola extends his military campaigns into Scotland, defeating the Caledonians and establishing forts and roads to secure Roman control in the region.
Agricola achieves a decisive victory over the Caledonians at the Battle of Mons Graupius, marking the northernmost extent of Roman control in Britain and securing his reputation as a great general.
Agricola returns to Rome after his successful campaigns in Britain and is honored with a triumph and a consulship, the highest political office in the Roman Empire.
Agricola is appointed as the governor of Pannonia, a province in the Danube region, where he continues to demonstrate his administrative and military skills.
Agricola retires from public life, possibly due to political tensions with Emperor Domitian, and returns to private life in Rome, where he remains a respected figure.
Gnaeus Julius Agricola dies in Rome, leaving behind a legacy as one of Rome's most successful military commanders and a key figure in the expansion of Roman control in Britain.