Roman Britain / Learning resources
Peoples and communities
The Brigantes
A major northern people whose rulers pursued both alliance with Rome and resistance to it.
Power in the north
The Brigantes controlled a large area of northern Britain when the Roman invasion began. Their political world contained different interests and centres of influence. A single name on a map should not suggest that every settlement or household had an identical relationship with its rulers.
Cartimandua and Venutius
Queen Cartimandua maintained an important alliance with Rome and handed over the fugitive Caratacus. Venutius later challenged her rule and the Roman connection. Their rivalry demonstrates that the choice between alliance and resistance could divide a community from within.
What archaeology adds
Imported pottery and glass at Stanwick show connections with the Roman world. Associating the site directly with Cartimandua remains a proposal rather than a fact secured by an inscription naming her. Under Roman rule, Aldborough became Isurium Brigantum, an important civilian centre carrying the Brigantes’ name.
Context and evidence
Compare the chronology of political events with the dates of the finds. Imported objects are evidence for contact and access to goods, but a single object does not prove the political loyalty of its owner.
Sources and further reading
Romans in Britain · People · Places · Learning resources