For years, historians have presumed that Verica, an Iron Age ruler central to the Roman invasion of Britain, was male. However, a new analysis by researchers at Bournemouth University indicates that Verica was, in fact, a woman, a discovery that could rewrite the history of early Roman Britain.
Dr. Miles Russell, who led the research, stated that the assumption of Verica's male identity stemmed from the prevailing mindset of 19th-century classical historians. "Verica was not only critical to the special relationship between Britain and Rome in the early first century AD but was indisputably female," Russell said.
Verica was the ruler of the Atrebates, a tribe whose territory encompassed much of what is now Hampshire and parts of Wiltshire. In 40 AD, Verica was ousted from power and fled to Rome, seeking support from Emperor Claudius. Roman historian Cassius Dio recorded that the invasion of Britain in 43 AD was prompted by Verica's persuasion of Claudius to cross the channel.
Researchers pointed to several pieces of evidence supporting Verica's female identity. The name 'Verica' ends in an 'a', a common suffix for female names during that period, similar to other known female rulers like Cartimandua of the Brigantes and Boudica of the Iceni. Coins attributed to Verica depict a "slender, feminine, bare-breasted figure riding on horseback," contrasting with the overtly male depictions of warriors from the same era.
Additionally, the presence of the title 'rex' on coins has been a point of historical contention. However, Russell explained that 'rex' was a non-gender-specific title in Roman usage, with both male and female rulers recognized, citing Cleopatra of Egypt as a prominent example. "The use of the Latin title rex on coins shows that Verica ruled with the full authorisation of the emperor," Russell noted.
Claudius himself had a reputation for being easily influenced by women, a factor that may have played into historical interpretations. "Dio was saying that the campaign was undertaken solely because of the whisperings of a barbarian femme fatale," Russell elaborated. "Verica's role was rather more central to the British expedition. Having her onboard ensured the project was a success as she provided tactical information and support on the ground."
Russell concluded that the archaeological evidence should be taken at face value, recognizing Verica as a female ruler and a significant early British leader. "Had she not been deposed, fleeing to Claudius for military support, Rome may never have invaded Britain in the first place," he suggested.