Julius Caesar made two visits to England in the 1st century BC, establishing it as an area of interest for the Roman Empire. One of Caesar's visits led to Hengistbury Head becoming an important port, while the Thames River developed into a major trade link between Britain and Europe. During this time of early contact with the Romans, the poet Horace referred to some Britons as friends of the Roman emperor Augustus.

1. 100BC
50 0000
Julius Caesar’s first visit to
England
Julius Caesar’s second visit
to England
Hengistbury Head becomes
key port
Thames becomes chief
trade link with Europe
Horace writes of
Britons who are friends
with Augustus