The Rebel Emperors of Britannia: Carausius and Allectus

Carausius and Allectus were emperors of Britannia in the third century AD, ruling for ten years and minting their own coins. They initiated Britains first integrated defense system and repelled an invasion from the Roman empire.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 28 August 2023
Publisher: Spink & Son Ltd

One of the most thrilling chapters in Britain's history under the Romans remains largely unheard of today. Yet, towards the end of the third century AD, two remarkable individuals succeeded each other as emperors of Britannia, ruling over the island and parts of the continental coast for a remarkable ten years. These men left an indelible mark on the nation, as they not only minted their own coins but also initiated Britannia's first truly integrated defense system and successfully repelled a formidable invasion from the mighty Roman empire. This captivating tale revolves around the lives of Carausius and Allectus, the rebel emperors who defied the Roman rule.

Carausius, a military leader of great renown, rose to power in the late third century AD. He was a skilled strategist and a formidable warrior, known for his bravery and cunning. With the support of his loyal troops, Carausius managed to overthrow the Roman emperor, Diocletian, and declare himself the sole ruler of Britannia.

Under Carausius' rule, Britannia experienced a period of relative stability and prosperity. He implemented several reforms that aimed to improve the lives of his subjects, including the introduction of a new currency and the establishment of a centralized government. Carausius also initiated Britannia's first truly integrated defense system, which consisted of a network of fortifications and a strong army.

However, Carausius' reign was not without its challenges. He faced opposition from within his own army, as some soldiers were loyal to the Roman emperor and sought to restore his rule. Additionally, the Roman empire was not willing to let go of its prized territory easily, and it sent a large army to Britannia to reclaim its lost territory.

Despite these obstacles, Carausius and his army were able to repel the Roman invasion. The battle was fierce, and Carausius himself was injured in the fighting, but his troops remained loyal to him and fought bravely. In the end, Carausius emerged victorious, and he was hailed as a hero by his people.

Carausius' successors, Allectus and Constantine, were not as fortunate. They were unable to maintain the stability that Carausius had established and faced constant rebellions from within their own army. The Roman empire also continued to exert pressure on Britannia, and the two emperors were eventually forced to submit to Roman rule.

Despite their eventual defeat, Carausius and Allectus left a lasting legacy on Britannia. They were the first men to rule the island as emperors, and their achievements in minting their own coins, initiating Britannia's first integrated defense system, and repelling the Roman invasion have been celebrated for centuries. Their story is a testament to the resilience and determination of the British people, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against oppression and fighting for independence.

In conclusion, the story of Carausius and Allectus, the rebel emperors of Britannia, is a fascinating and largely unknown chapter in Britain's history. These two men defied the Roman rule and left an indelible mark on the nation, initiating Britannia's first integrated defense system and repelling a formidable invasion from the Roman empire. Despite their eventual defeat, their legacy continues to inspire and motivate people to stand up against oppression and fight for their rights.

Dimension: 240 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912667918