A female ruler may have prompted the Roman invasion of Britain

Dr Miles Russell of Bournemouth University suggests that Verica, a ruler of the Atrebates, was a queen rather than a king.

The Atrebates people lived in areas that now comprise Hampshire and West Sussex. After the people were removed from power in 40AD, they fled to Emperor Claudius in Rome. This move led to the Roman invasion of Britain in AD43. Historian Cassius Dio wrote that the invasion occurred because Verica persuaded Claudius to cross the Channel.

Dio described Claudius as a weak leader whose decisions were influenced by women and freed slaves. Dr Russell argues that historians in the 19th century assumed Verica was male due to a patriarchal mindset. However, the name Verica ends in the letter a, which was common for female names during that period. Archaeological evidence from coins also supports the theory that Verica was female.

While other British Iron Age leaders appear as male warriors on currency, Verica appears as a slender, feminine, and bare-breasted figure on horseback. Dr Russell notes that the title rex used on these coins was not gender-specific. He believes Verica provided the tactical information and support necessary for the Roman project to succeed.