RomanoBritons

Romano-Britons refers to the inhabitants of Roman Britain who adopted many aspects of Roman culture and institutions while retaining elements of their indigenous Brythonic heritage. The designation covers the period of Roman rule from the conquest in AD 43 through the late antique era and into the early medieval centuries, roughly until the formal withdrawal of Roman legions in the early 5th century. After withdrawal, Romano-British communities persisted and contributed to the formation of post-Roman successor kingdoms in areas that would become Wales, Cornwall, and parts of southern Britain.

Linguistically, Latin functioned as the language of administration and elite culture, while Brythonic languages remained common among rural populations. Roman-style towns, roads, villas, and administrative centers indicate substantial urbanization in several regions, complemented by continued agriculture and local trade. Christianity expanded during the late Roman period, leaving a network of churches and bishoprics in the later Roman era.

Archaeological evidence from inscriptions, coins, and material culture shows a synthesis of Roman and native traditions, with regional variation in the degree of romanization. The departure of Roman authority caused political fragmentation and the emergence of early medieval kingdoms, while cultural continuity persisted in language and local practices. The Romano-Britons thus form a transitional population between the classical province of Britannia and the post-Roman Celtic polities that followed, with a lasting impact on later Welsh, Cornish, and Breton identities.