The Celtic Britons, or simply the Britons, were an ancient group of peoples who lived in what is now Great Britain before the Roman conquest in 43 AD. They were part of the larger Celtic cultural group that spanned across Europe, including regions such as Gaul (modern-day France), Ireland, and parts of the Iberian Peninsula. Over time, the Britons developed their own unique cultural identity, language, and traditions, which made them one of the most significant peoples in early British history.

The Celtic Origins

The Celts are believed to have originated in Central Europe, and their presence in the British Isles dates back to around 600 BCE. Archaeological evidence, such as the La Tène culture (which was a phase of the European Iron Age), suggests that the Celts began migrating to Britain from continental Europe during this period. The Celts were not a single nation but rather a collection of tribes united by a common language, cultural practices, and religion.

By the time of the early centuries BCE, the Celtic Britons had established their presence on the island, occupying various regions across what we now know as England, Wales, and southern Scotland. The Celts were known for their distinctive art styles, such as intricate metalwork and pottery, and their society was largely tribal, with each tribe ruled by a chieftain or king.

Social Structure and Culture

The Celtic Britons had a hierarchical society. At the top were the nobility, composed of chieftains, kings, and warrior elites who led their tribes. Below them were the common people, including farmers, artisans, and laborers. The Britons also had a class of religious leaders known as the Druids, who played a central role in both spiritual and political matters. Druids were priests, teachers, and judges, and they were believed to have great influence over the decisions of the Celtic tribes. Their religious practices included worshiping natural elements like trees, rivers, and sacred groves, and their belief system was polytheistic.

The Britons lived in fortified settlements called hill forts, which were often located on elevated ground for defensive purposes. These structures were made of timber and earth, and the larger forts sometimes had intricate designs, including gates, defensive walls, and ditches. In addition to these forts, the Britons were known for their artistic craftsmanship, particularly in metalworking, and for their use of pottery and textiles. They also practiced agriculture, raising cattle, sheep, and growing grains like wheat and barley. shutdown123