According to most history books, Britain was invaded in 43 AD under the Emperor Claudius by up to four legions of citizen troops: II Augusta, XIV Gemina, IX Hispana and XX. This week, new evidence will be unveiled in Britain that will re-write this aspect of Romano-British hostory. Those revealing the evidence, say the 'invasion of Claudius' was little more than a political ploy designed to help the image of a weak emperor.
A series of astonishing archaeological findings of Roman military equipment, to be revealed this week, will prove that the Romans had already arrived decades earlier - and that they had been welcomed with open arms by ancient Britons, according to the Independent newspaper.
The discovery of swords, helmets and armour in Chichester, Sussex, dates back to a period between the late first century BC and the early first century AD- almost 50 years before the supposed invasion. Archaeologists who have studied the finds believe it will turn conventional Roman history taught in schools on its head. "It is like discovering that the Second World War started in 1938," said Dr David Rudkin, a Roman expert leading the work. Read more.
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