What did the Romans do to improve Britain? - Presentation
History Resource Description
The Roman influence on Britain was profound, leaving a lasting legacy that reshaped the landscape and society. After the end of the Iron Age, the Roman occupation introduced significant changes to Britain, including the construction of a vast network of roads. Before the Romans, Britain lacked proper roads, but during their time, they built about 10,000 miles of roads that were meticulously constructed in straight lines on foundations of chalk, clay, and gravel. These roads were crucial for military movements and trade, effectively connecting towns across the nation. The Romans also brought their language, Latin, which soon became widely used in Britain, influencing the English language we know today. Additionally, they introduced their system of numbers, some of which are still in use.
Beyond infrastructure and language, the Romans also had a substantial impact on urban development. They founded towns with stone and brick buildings, complete with theatres, temples, and amphitheatres, which were unlike anything the native Celts had seen. These towns provided a stark contrast to the Celtic way of life, offering a more sophisticated urban lifestyle. Roman towns were designed with a regular pattern, often featuring a town hall and marketplace at the centre, and were later fortified with stone walls for better defence. The Romans also introduced other amenities such as baths, aqueducts, and a currency system, all of which contributed to the transformation of British society from the end of the Iron Age to the end of the Roman occupation.