10 brilliant Boudica facts
Meet the fearsome Celtic queen who fought against the Romans…
Ever heard of Queen Boudica, one of Britain’s bravest warriors? She stood up to Roman invaders nearly 2,000 years ago! Discover her incredible life with these facts about Boudica…
Boudica facts
1. Boudica was born in about AD 30.
She grew up in the east of England, in what is now Norfolk, nearly 2,000 years ago. Her people – the Iceni – were one of many Celtic tribes that lived in Britain at the time.
2. According to Roman historians, Boudica was tall and strong with long red hair.
She is often pictured wearing a gold torque (necklace) and carrying a spear. Even her name was powerful – it comes from an Ancient Celtic world meaning ‘victory‘!
3. In around AD 48, Boudica married the Iceni king, Prasutagus, and became queen of the Iceni tribe.
By this time, the Romans had reached Britain and conquered all of southern England using their advanced armour and weaponry. To stay on the invading Romans’ good side, Prasutagus agreed to pay Roman taxes and obey their laws.
4. When Prasutagus died in AD 59, the Romans attacked Boudica!
Prasutagus had agreed to split his wealth between he and Boudica’s two daughters and the Roman Emperor Nero – hoping that this would ensure peace for the Iceni. But the Roman governor of Britain, Suetonius Paulinus, had other plans. He ordered his soldiers to attack Boudica and her daughters and take all their property.
5. Boudica was angry at how she – and all the Iceni – were treated.
And she wasn’t the only one! Boudica persuaded neighbouring tribes, like the Trinovantes from Essex, to unite and rise up against the Romans together – even though they were historically rivals.
6. In around AD 60, Boudica led a huge rebellion against the Romans.
Historians think that about 100,000 warriors fought with Boudica. They carried iron swords, daggers and long, javelin-like spears.
7. Her army conquered the Roman city, Camulodonum!
After burning this city, which is known today as Colchester, to the ground, Boudica and her fighters went on to capture Londinium (London) and Verulamium (St Albans) as well.
8. She was finally defeated in around AD 61.
After hearing of Boudica’s victories, Suetonius sent his best Roman troops to fight her. With their superior training and weapons, the Romans beat Boudica’s army in a bloody battle. Legend has it that she poisoned herself to avoid being captured.
9. Boudica’s rebellion ended in defeat, but her bravery became legendary.
She’s now remembered as one of Britain’s greatest warriors, symbolising leadership, defiance and strength.
10. There’s a statue of Boudica in London.
The bronze sculpture stands on the bank of the River Thames in London, UK, beside the Houses of Parliament. Commissioned by Prince Albert in the Victorian era, it depicts Boudica and her daughters riding a chariot into battle. What a warrior!
Did you enjoy these Boudica facts? Click here to discover more fascinating women from history.
Illustrations © Marek Jagucki; Statue images © Adobe Stock.
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