Hadrian's Wall

Definition

Hadrian's Wall was a defensive fortification built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD, marking the northern boundary of the Roman Empire in Britain. Stretching approximately 73 miles across the north of England, it served as a military barrier against the tribes to the north and played a key role in the organization and material culture of Roman Britain, showcasing the empire’s architectural and engineering prowess.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hadrian's Wall was commissioned by Emperor Hadrian around AD 122 as part of his efforts to consolidate and secure the empire's northern frontier.
2. The wall was built using local stone and included a series of forts, smaller milecastles for garrisoning troops, and watch towers along its length.
3. It served not only as a military defense but also as a means of controlling trade and movement between the Roman territories and the tribes to the north.
4. Archaeological remains along Hadrian's Wall have provided significant insights into Roman military life and their interactions with local populations.
5. Today, Hadrian's Wall is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting its historical significance and architectural achievement within the context of Roman Britain.

Review Questions

• How did Hadrian's Wall serve both military and economic functions during Roman Britain?
  • Hadrian's Wall functioned primarily as a military fortification designed to protect against invasions from northern tribes. However, it also played a significant economic role by controlling trade routes and regulating commerce between the Romans and local tribes. The presence of soldiers stationed at the wall facilitated trade with nearby communities while preventing unauthorized movement across the border, thus contributing to the economy of Roman Britain.
• Discuss the construction techniques used in building Hadrian's Wall and how they reflect Roman engineering skills.
  • The construction of Hadrian's Wall exemplified advanced Roman engineering techniques of the time. It was primarily built from locally sourced stone, with specific construction methods that ensured durability. The use of forts and milecastles along the wall allowed for efficient troop movement and supply logistics. This impressive structure not only defended against invasions but also showcased Rome's ability to adapt their engineering practices to local materials and geography.
• Evaluate the impact of Hadrian's Wall on Roman Britain's relationship with its northern neighbors over time.
  • Hadrian's Wall significantly influenced Roman Britain's relationship with northern tribes by establishing a clear boundary that demarcated Roman territory. While it initially served as a strong deterrent against invasions, over time, interactions between Romans and tribes became more complex. The wall allowed for regulated trade and cultural exchanges but also tensions arose when tribes challenged Roman authority. This duality illustrates how Hadrian's Wall acted as both a barrier and a bridge between different cultures during its existence.

Related terms

Roman Legions: The military units of the Roman army, composed of heavily armed infantry, which were crucial for the expansion and defense of Roman territories.

Limes: A term used to describe the border fortifications of the Roman Empire, similar to Hadrian's Wall, which helped define the limits of Roman control.

Vicus: A civilian settlement that often developed around Roman military forts, providing support services for soldiers and facilitating trade.