At one time the Roman Empire ruled the world. They won many important battles. Again many bloody battles had to be defeated. A war forgotten in history was the Roman conquest of Arabia.
As the Arab region was prosperous, the Romans took it seriously. They divide the region into three parts. North Arabia was named Arabia Petrea. Roads in the region were important routes for trade and commerce.
On the other hand, the middle of Arabia had a lot of desert area. That is why it was difficult for people to live here and survive. South Arabia was important to the Romans in terms of agriculture and sea trade.
Roman commander Aelius Gallus led the Arab expedition. He prepared a large fleet so that the Arab navy could not challenge them. At sea they have to deal with adverse weather conditions.
After 15 days the Roman army entered Arab territory. The Roman army marched from the north-west region and advanced across the central Arabian desert. At this time, the governors of many cities left the city after seeing the Roman army.
In southern Arabia, the Romans encountered a barbarian Arab army near the city of Asca. They defeated them easily and captured the city of Aska.
The Romans then captured the city of Atrula. These cities provide enough food and supplies for the troops. Later, the Marciaba region was besieged by Roman troops.
During this time the Romans faced problems due to illness and hostile environment. But as it was close to the South Arabian Sea and suitable for agriculture, the then commander wanted to capture it at any cost.
However, as most of the army fell ill, the commander Gallus did not risk it and returned to Egypt, accepting defeat. Along the way Commander Gallus learns that there is a traitor among them. He served as a guide in a campaign.
The Romans’ Arab campaign was a campaign in which none of the Arabs could challenge them on the battlefield. Rather, illness, hostile environment and betrayal were the main reasons for their failure.