Why did the Romans leave Britain? - Presentation

The departure of the Romans from Britain was influenced by several factors, including internal strife and rebellions. Notably, the Romans were frustrated by uprisings within Britain, one of the most significant being led by Queen Boudica, a formidable leader of the Iceni tribe. Students are encouraged to delve into Boudica's history, learning about her through an online resource and summarising key facts, such as her lineage, her marriage to King Prasutagas, and her rise to power as the Queen of the Iceni. The educational material guides pupils to explore how Boudica fiercely resisted Roman rule, uniting tribes against the empire and leading a devastating rebellion that saw the destruction of Roman settlements, including Camulodunum and Londinium, and the deaths of thousands.

The Roman withdrawal from Britain was ultimately precipitated by the empire's own decline. By 410 AD, Rome itself was under threat, necessitating the redeployment of Roman forces to defend the heartland. The Roman Emperor Honorius officially released the Britons from Roman rule, leaving them to defend their lands independently. This pivotal moment marked a significant transition for Britain as Roman structures and settlements fell into decay, and the population reverted to a more rural existence. Nonetheless, the Roman impact on Britain was enduring, evident in the introduction of new towns, plants, animals, religion, and literacy, as well as in the very name "Britain," which is derived from the Roman era.