Hadrian's Wall

Definition

Hadrian's Wall was a defensive fortification built by the Romans under Emperor Hadrian around AD 122 in northern England. Stretching approximately 73 miles, it marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire and served to protect Roman Britain from invasions by the Picts and other tribes from what is now Scotland. The wall is a key symbol of Roman military engineering during the Pax Romana, reflecting the empire's efforts to maintain control over its territories.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hadrian's Wall was constructed as part of Emperor Hadrian's policy to consolidate and secure the northern frontier of Roman Britain.
2. The wall included numerous fortifications, such as milecastles for garrisoning troops and watch towers for surveillance.
3. It took about six years to build and was made primarily from stone, showcasing advanced Roman engineering techniques.
4. The wall not only served a military purpose but also acted as a customs post, controlling trade and movement between the Roman territories and the tribes beyond.
5. Hadrian's Wall was maintained throughout the Roman occupation but eventually fell into disrepair after the empire's decline in Britain.

Review Questions

• How did Hadrian's Wall reflect the policies of Emperor Hadrian regarding the management of the Roman Empire's borders?
  • Hadrian's Wall was a direct representation of Emperor Hadrian's approach to border management, focusing on consolidation rather than expansion. By constructing this wall, Hadrian aimed to create a secure boundary that would protect Roman Britain from northern tribes, allowing for stability within the empire. This reflected a strategic shift towards maintaining control over existing territories during the Pax Romana rather than pursuing further conquests.
• Discuss the significance of Hadrian's Wall in terms of its military functions and its impact on trade during Roman times.
  • Hadrian's Wall served multiple military functions, acting as a defensive barrier against invasions while housing troops in fortifications like milecastles. The presence of these military structures helped deter potential aggressors while simultaneously enabling the Romans to control trade routes effectively. By regulating movement and commerce between Roman territories and neighboring tribes, Hadrian's Wall facilitated economic stability and growth in the region during a time of relative peace.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Hadrian's Wall on British history and its symbolic representation in modern culture.
  • The long-term impacts of Hadrian's Wall extend beyond its immediate military purpose; it symbolizes the extent of Roman influence in Britain and highlights themes of cultural exchange and conflict. Over centuries, it has become an emblem of Britain's historical narrative, representing both strength and division. In modern culture, Hadrian's Wall serves as a popular tourist destination, embodying Roman heritage while prompting discussions about borders and identities in contemporary society.

Related terms

Pax Romana: A period of relative peace and stability across the Roman Empire that lasted for about 200 years, beginning with the reign of Augustus.

Roman Legions: The principal military units of the Roman army, typically consisting of around 5,000 soldiers, which played a crucial role in expanding and defending the empire.

Limes: The term used to describe the border defenses of the Roman Empire, which included walls, forts, and watchtowers to protect against invasions.