How the Romans conquered Britain

Why did the Romans invade Britain?

Over 2,000 years ago, the Romans first arrived in Britain. Although that was way back in the past, many clues still survive which tell us what life was like during Roman times.

From the remains of ancient forts to the jewellery, letters and household items still being dug up by archaeologists today. We can find out brilliant details of what they ate, what their homes looked like and even what they did for fun.

And thanks to a book written all those years ago by the famous Roman commander, Julius Caesar, we also know one reason why the Romans wanted to come to Britain in the first place - they wanted to make use of the amazing natural resources to be found here.

Caesar wrote, "The Britons have a huge number of cattle, they use gold coins or iron bars as their money, and produce tin and iron." That description helps to explain why Caesar and his army decided to pile over here to Britain to try to invade. Rome wanted to get its hand on all those British resources to make itself even richer.

Back then, before the Romans invaded, we didn't have one king or queen ruling over the nation. Britain was made up of different groups, or tribes, known as the Celts or native Britons.

We get an idea of what the native Britons looked like thanks to a description of them in here. But do remember, of course, they were Caesar's enemy, so his opinion might be a little bit one-sided. "All Britons used woad to dye their bodies a blue colour, which makes them terrifying when they are fighting in battle."

The Celts also put lime in their hair to make it stiff and thick, which made them look even more ferocious. "They used their chariots in battle, steering them in all directions while hurling their weapons, generally causing the enemy to separate apart. Then one of the warriors leaps from the chariot and fights on foot."

It was all just too much for Caesar. He invaded the country twice, but he never actually managed to take over. That would have to wait until 100 years later when the Emperor Claudius tried again and this time, he succeeded. And that is how we became part of the Roman Empire.

Boudicca: I am Boudicca, Queen of the Iceni. When my husband died, he left his kingdom both to me and the Roman emperor, Nero, to share.

It was meant to keep the peace between us.

Narrator: It is 60AD. The Romans have invaded and taken over much of southern Britain.

Some of the native British tribes have agreed to support and work with the Romans, but others are not so happy.

The Roman army is heading to North Wales, but elsewhere, trouble is brewing – led by Boudicca.

Boudicca: But the Romans want it all!

Nero had me whipped in front of my people. He demands we pay taxes on land that belongs to us.

Beretta: She is magnificent.

Boudicca: Fight with us.

Beretta: I want to fight too. I want to be like Boudicca.

Beretta’s Father: No, Beretta.

Beretta: You named me Beretta, Beretta means strong.

Beretta’s Father: Yeah, that was a mistake.

Narrator: Beretta and her father follow Boudicca and her army. They head for Colchester, an important Roman town, and burn it to the ground.

Boudicca: What’s your name?

Beretta: Beretta.

Boudicca: You live up to your name. And now, onto Londinium.

Was Boudicca’s rebellion a success?

After burning down Colchester, Boudicca's army destroyed the Roman town of London, before heading north to St Albans.

Meanwhile, the Roman army is busy conquering Wales. But messengers soon bring them news of Boudicca's campaign, and their plans are changed.

“The Britons have done too much damage. If we don't defeat them now, we will have to leave these islands and all the riches they contain. We must end their revolt once and for all.”

Native British warriors blow war horns, known as carnyx, to put fear into the Romans and are experts at driving two-wheeled chariots. They use iron-tipped spears and long slashing swords, but wear little armour. They don't fear death, believing they will come back braver and stronger in their next life.

“Charge!”

Roman soldiers are put into groups of around 6,000 men known as legions. The Roman army is well armed, very skilled at working together and heavily protected by armour.

Britons outnumber the Romans by up to 20-to-1, but the Roman soldiers are highly trained. Boudicca and the Britons are defeated. Around 80,000 Britons are killed. Rome will control most of Britain for the next 350 years.

“Welcome, men, this is Roman Britain.”