The Roman Occupation of Britain and its Legacy

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This book tells the fascinating story of Roman Britain, beginning with the late pre-Roman Iron Age and ending with the province's independence from Roman rule in AD 409. Incorporating for the first time the most recent archaeological discoveries from Hadrian's Wall, London and other sites across the country, and richly illustrated throughout with photographs and maps, this reliable and up-to-date new account is essential reading for students, non-specialists and general readers alike. Writing in a clear, readable and lively style (with a satirical eye to strange features of past times), Rupert Jackson draws on current research and new findings to deepen our understanding of the role played by Britain in the Roman Empire, deftly integrating the ancient texts with new archaeological material. A key theme of the book is that Rome's annexation of Britain was an imprudent venture, motivated more by political prestige than economic gain, such that Britain became a 'trophy province' unable to pay its own way. However, the impact that Rome and its provinces had on this distant island was nevertheless profound: huge infrastructure projects transformed the countryside and means of travel, capital and principal cities emerged, and the Roman way of life was inseparably absorbed into local traditions. Many of those transformations continue to resonate to this day, as we encounter their traces in both physical remains and in civic life.

Reviews

This book is a great read and recommended for anyone who enjoys enthralling, well-written stories even if they do not consider themselves history buffs. * The Law Society Gazette *
Several things make this book stand out, not least its dry, often pertinent humour, which makes the reader want to power ahead, and instances of which made this reviewer laugh aloud ... With its clear and easy style that brings Roman Britain with all its complexities and contradictions hustling and bustling back into life, it is written for students and general readers. There should be at least one copy in every library, for this deserves to be a go-to book for many years to come. * Classics for All *
It is hard to imagine a better introduction to Roman Britain for pupil and adult alike. Its direct and unfussy style is sprinkled with humour, often in the service of comparison with modern history and experience. * Counsel Magazine *
This book is the most informative (for its length) that can be imagined. It will be a valuable addition to any school library. * Journal of Classics Teaching *
Rupert Jackson presents an excellent and comprehensive introduction to Roman Britain, which explores ancient sources as well as the diversity of modern scholarly opinion. His crisp style, punctuated by humour, will engage the reader. -- James Renshaw, Classics Teacher, Godolphin and Latymer School, UK
In recent years there has been a renaissance in the study of Roman Britain, with a wide variety of new material approaches being developed, many of which have shied away from the textual sources. In this book Rupert Jackson revisits Roman Britain, re-engaging with the written evidence, but placing it in the context of new ideas and key recent discoveries. This refreshing approach provides an excellent and rounded account of the province which will be of interest to specialist and general readers alike. -- Martin Millett, Laurence Professor of Classical Archaeology, University of Cambridge, UK

Author Bio

Sir Rupert Jackson (a former lord justice of appeal) is an independent scholar based in London, UK. Having read Classics at Cambridge before turning to the law, he has retained a lifelong interest in the subject. He is a keen and experienced academic reviewer of titles relating to Classics and Ancient History.