Catuvellauni

The homeland of the Catuvellauni was modern Hertfordshire. Their King, Cassivellaunus took the lead in resisting the invasion of Julius Caesar. He overcame the customary tribal animosities of Celtic Britain by forming an alliance of neighbouring tribes. His headquarters was Veralamium (St Albans). His successor , Tasciovanus, was recognised as a Roman 'client-King' at the same time as Tincommius. Under his son, Cunobelinus, the Catuvellauni became the leading power in Southern Britain before the Roman conquest.

Cunobelinus conquered the Trinovantes early in the first century gaining Camulodunum, the chief centre for continental trade, which became his capital. He took over part of Kent, the Midlands and territory of the Atrebates in Sussex and Hampshire. Coins were minted in Camulodunum and referred to him as rex 'King' and he was called 'King of the Britons'.

Outlying provinces were governed by sons of Cunobelinus or other members of his family. His personal empire ended with his death. His son Togodomnus was killed fighting the Romans. Another son Caratacus who ruled from the Atrebates settlement of Calleva (Silchester), retreated to Wales. Caratacus led the Welsh tribes, the Silures and Ordovices against the Romans until 50 AD when defeated, he retreated to the territory of the Brigantes who betrayed him to Rome. A third son of Cunobelinus, Adminus, ruled in Kent until he fled to Rome in about 40 AD.