History of Wars Summary 18 - Roman Dacian Wars 3: Preparation for the Second War

After the war ended in 101 AD, Dacia became nearly a vassal state of Rome, but Decebalus did not properly adhere to the peace terms. He regrouped surrounding tribes, restored fortresses, and secured weapons and troops. Rome also strengthened its military facilities to stabilize the Danube frontier. Trajan took the possibility of Decebalus attacking again very seriously and ultimately prepared for a new war. This time, the plan was not just border defense but the complete conquest of the Dacian kingdom. Rome constructed a massive stone bridge over the Danube River, allowing for the swift movement of troops and supplies. This bridge, known to be designed by Apollodorus, was a prime example of Rome's superior civil engineering. Dacia also intensified its defensive preparations, focusing on its capital and mountain fortresses. As the two nations entered full-scale conflict again, a clash far larger than the first war was foreshadowed. Finally, in 105 AD, Trajan crossed the Danube with a large army.