Did the Roman Legions Ever Truly Abandon Britain?

For hundreds of years, Britain was a strategic province under Roman rule, hosting four legions responsible for military governance. However, the Roman presence in Britain was more complex than a straightforward conquest and abandonment. This article delves into the timeline of Roman rule, from invasion attempts in 75 A.D. to the last Roman soldiers leaving Britain in 410 A.D., and explores unanswered questions surrounding their departure.

Beginning of Roman Rule in Britain (75 A.D. - 450 A.D.)

With the initial invasion around 43 A.D., marking the start of Roman rule in Britain, the legions numbered four: Legio II Augusta, Legio XIV Gemina, and Legio XX Valeria Victrix. These legions were stationed to restore order and establish a stable administrative presence. It is estimated that Roman rule continued until around 450 A.D., when the political instability of the Roman Empire necessitated the withdrawal of several legions to defend Rome itself.

Concentration on Defense and the Return of Troops to Rome (Later 3rd and 4th Centuries)

The withdrawal of legions to defend Rome in the face of barbarian invasions led to a reduced military presence in Britain. Post-service veterans were often settled in colonies, such as the one in modern-day Colchester, where they enjoyed priority access to Roman imports. However, these colonies were not without conflict. For instance, the Roman settlement at Colchester was destroyed by Boudica in 60-61 A.D.

End of Roman Rule and Legacy (410 A.D. - Beyond)

By 383 A.D., the Roman legions were further withdrawn due to internal conflicts and the increasing pressure from barbarian invasions from mainland Europe. The last significant Roman soldiers departed Britain in 410 A.D., marking the end of three centuries of Roman rule. This was not a sudden abandonment but a gradual withdrawal, as highlighted by the Rescript of Honorius, informing the Roman cities in Britain that assistance would not be forthcoming. This decree made roughly two generations of British societal regression, with the native population replaced by Angles and Saxons.

Continuation and Impact of Roman Legacy

The aftermath of the Roman withdrawal saw a significant cultural shift in Britain. The once-advanced Roman civilization gave way to a period of regression. Literacy and advanced technological knowledge were lost, with only a few Christian monasteries preserving some records. The political landscape transformed into one dominated by various tribal warlords, leading to prolonged internal warfare.

Conclusion and Patrimony

The departure of Roman legions and the subsequent withdrawal of Roman rule left a profound impact on British history. This timeline highlights the complexity of the Roman presence in Britain, indicating that their legacy, though lesser in name, was significant in shaping the modern British landscape.