Drusus the Elder

Drusus launched a campaign against the Germanic tribes across the Rhine. He defeated the Usipetes and Sugambri, and built a fleet on the Rhine to conduct operations. This campaign established Roman presence east of the Rhine.

Drusus ordered the construction of a canal connecting the Rhine River to the IJsselmeer, known as the Fossa Drusiana. This canal allowed Roman ships to bypass the North Sea coast and reach the German coast more safely, facilitating logistics.

Drusus led a campaign that reached the Elbe River, the furthest east any Roman army had penetrated into Germania. He defeated the Chatti and Cherusci tribes, but was forced to turn back due to supply issues and the onset of winter.

Drusus died from injuries sustained when he fell from his horse while returning from the Elbe campaign. His death at age 29 shocked Rome. Augustus mourned deeply, and Drusus was given a state funeral and posthumous honors.