Africans in Roman Britain KS3 Teaching Resources

Africans were part of the multicultural society of Roman Britain during the Roman occupation (43 CE onwards), highlighting the far-reaching connections of the Roman Empire. They arrived in Britain through various means—as enslaved individuals, skilled traders, soldiers serving in the Roman army, or free citizens seeking new opportunities within the empire’s expanding frontiers. Archaeological and historical evidence of their presence has been uncovered in the form of tombstones, inscriptions, burial remains, and written records, especially in areas like York and along Hadrian’s Wall.

One notable example is the discovery of the remains of a young African woman in Roman York, suggesting she lived and died as part of the local community. Other discoveries point to African soldiers stationed in Britain as part of Rome’s auxiliary forces, such as the "Aurelian Moors." These individuals would have adopted Roman customs, dress, language, and religious practices, including pagan beliefs and, later, Christianity, which began to spread during the Roman period.

Although specific contributions by Africans in Roman Britain are not always well-documented, their presence reveals the empire’s diversity and the movement of people across vast distances. It also challenges the idea that ancient Britain was culturally or racially homogeneous. Their lives and interactions helped shape Roman Britain's economy, culture, and society, laying early foundations for the multicultural character of Britain today.

Learn more about Africans in Roman Britain through the centuries with our KS3 resources. You’ll find Student Activities, Lesson Presentation, and Revision Notes ready to download below. KS3 resources are ideally suited for Years 7, 8 and 9, or ages 11-14.