Gnaeus Julius Agricola vs Ma Chao

Agricola was appointed governor of Aquitania, a Roman province in Gaul. He administered the province for three years, focusing on legal and financial reforms. This post prepared him for higher command and demonstrated his administrative skills.

As governor of Britain, Agricola launched a campaign against the Ordovices tribe in northern Wales. He defeated them and then conquered the island of Anglesey, a stronghold of Druids and resistance, completing the Roman subjugation of Wales.

Agricola's army defeated a large Caledonian force led by Calgacus at Mons Graupius in northern Scotland. The Roman victory was decisive, but Agricola did not pursue the defeated tribes into the Highlands, leaving the conquest of Scotland incomplete.

Agricola ordered a Roman fleet to circumnavigate Britain, proving it was an island. The fleet sailed around the northern coast, encountering the Orkney Islands. This exploration provided valuable geographical knowledge and demonstrated Roman naval power.

Ma Chao, allied with Qiang and Hu tribes, led a rebellion against Cao Cao in Liang Province. He captured the city of Chang'an and threatened Cao Cao's western flank, forcing Cao Cao to personally lead a campaign against him.

Cao Cao's army faced Ma Chao's coalition at Tong Pass. Ma Chao's cavalry repeatedly charged Cao Cao's forces, nearly killing Cao Cao himself. However, Cao Cao used a feint to cross the Yellow River and outflank Ma Chao, forcing him to retreat.

After his defeat by Cao Cao, Ma Chao fled to Hanzhong and sought refuge with the warlord Zhang Lu. Zhang Lu gave him command of troops but grew suspicious of him, leading Ma Chao to eventually leave and join Liu Bei.

Ma Chao surrendered to Liu Bei and was given command of troops. He played a key role in Liu Bei's conquest of Yi Province, and later was appointed General of the Vanguard. He was enfeoffed as Marquis of Taitai.