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In this history documentary we explore the Germanic Wars and consider why didn't Rome Conquer Germania? This was certainly not out of a lack of trying as can be see with our Avenging Varus series which covers the many campaigns of Germanicus fought throughout the region. These saw many -clashes with the Germanic Army of Arminius such as the Battle of Idistavisus and the Battle of the Angrivarian Wall. Yet this was but one small chapter of the greater context that was the history of the Germanic Wars. We therefore begin our documentary with a recap of this conflict.

The Germanic Wars began in the 2nd century BC with the migration of several tribes which resulted in the Cimbrian War. These were ultimately beaten back by Marius and a reformed Roman Army but the conflict had seen the tribes take the offense. This would begin to change in the Gallic War when Julius Caesar first fought the Suebi west of the Rhine before pursuing them across the great river into their homeland. From then on the conflicts would largely be fought along this border as Rome sought to establish a zone of control along the new frontier of the province of Gaul. Nearly 40 years of war would be fought in Germania with a rapidly increasing body count until Tiberius finally called an end to the madness.

The next part of the history documentary seeks to answer why didn't Rome Conquer Germania? It does so by looking at a variety of larger trends and circumstantial factors at play. This involves discussions of manpower, resources, imperial politics, Germanic strength, poor geography, and a host of other contributing factors.

But why do you think Rome failed to conquer Germania? And what if Rome had conquered Germania?

Credits:
Research: Chris Das Neves
Writing: Chris Das Neves
Narration: Invicta
Artwork: Penta Limited

Sources and Suggested Reading:
"Pax Romana" by Adrian Goldsworthy
"Campaigns of Germanicus, 13-16 AD" by Ilkka Syvänne
"The Annals" by Cornelius Tacitus
"Roman Soldier Vs Germanic Warrior: 1st Century AD" by Osprey Publishing
"In the Name of Rome" by Adrian Goldsworthy

#History
#Documentary
#Invicta