Administration and conquest
The praetorians acclaimed Claudius after Caligula’s assassination in 41 CE. His administration relied on influential freedmen including Narcissus and Pallas. In 43 CE he launched the invasion of Britain: Aulus Plautius commanded the initial campaign, while Claudius joined later for the advance on Camulodunum. Claudius had previously held the consulship; he was not entirely without public experience.
Marriage and the succession
After Messalina’s execution in 48 CE, Claudius married Agrippina the Younger in 49 CE. He adopted her son Nero, who gained precedence over Britannicus. Claudius died in 54 CE. Ancient authors report poisoning, often involving mushrooms, but the precise circumstances remain uncertain.
Historical sources
Suetonius, Claudius 7; 17; 26–27; 44
Public office, Britain, marriages, and the disputed account of his death.
English Heritage, The Roman Invasion of Britain
Aulus Plautius’s command of the initial invasion.