10-02-2022, 08:25 AM
My input is applying a military perspective. SP as Governor and Army commander already knows that the enemy forces have overrun at least 3 towns, several estates and defeated at least one significant Roman force (Cerialis' infantry). He will also be aware that small dispersed camps of 2K troops would be vulnerable to annihilation in detail. While I am not saying that he may have done that due to circumstances I do not see dispersal in the face of a huge enemy force as being his preferred option. One of the Principles of War is concentration of effort. This may be achieved by having a main camp with a couple of satellite camps within a very short distance.
Looking at the archaeology of other camps (on the Rhine, for example) they were increased and decreased in size at intervals, presumably as the garrison increased or decreased. SP could have immediately made one camp for his troops under command as more arrive the camp can be extended. Maybe not ideal but certainly possible. His troop strength, logistics (inc water), terrain and weather would determine the eventual choice of camps.
However, if we downgrade the strength of Boudica's forces considerably from the accounts then dispersal is less risky.
Looking at the archaeology of other camps (on the Rhine, for example) they were increased and decreased in size at intervals, presumably as the garrison increased or decreased. SP could have immediately made one camp for his troops under command as more arrive the camp can be extended. Maybe not ideal but certainly possible. His troop strength, logistics (inc water), terrain and weather would determine the eventual choice of camps.
However, if we downgrade the strength of Boudica's forces considerably from the accounts then dispersal is less risky.
Alan
Lives in Caledonia not far from the Antonine Wall.
Lives in Caledonia not far from the Antonine Wall.
