This programme focuses on the coming of age of the Romans in Britain. The initial rebellion and revolt by Boudicca has been ruthlessly crushed, and a new, vibrant culture begins to emerge. London and Bath become showpiece cities in Roman Britain, with magnificent new buildings and fabulous commercial opportunities for the Romano-British people.
Elsewhere in Britain huge industrial complexes are developed - like the massive iron workings at Beauport Park in Sussex. But as time passes, a shadow falls over the province: Saxon pirates begin to raid the coast, and the once great cities fall into decline.
In the third century wealth moves out to the countryside, to magnificent country houses like the one at Chedworth in Gloucestershire, and the villa culture is born.
To find out more, read the programme transcript.
First broadcast: Friday 4 Dec 1998 on BBC TWO
Romans in Britain in more depth:
OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - Programme one - 'Fact and Fable'
Production team
The first programme in the BBC/OU Romans In Britain series explores the real story of invasion. Read more : OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - Programme one - 'Fact and Fable'
OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - Programme three - 'Hadrian's Wall: The Edge of the Empire'
Production team
The third programme in the BBC/OU's Romans in Britain series examined Hadrian's Wall. Read more : OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - Programme three - 'Hadrian's Wall: The Edge of the Empire'
OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - Books
Production team
Do you want to know more about the Empire? Follow our tips for reading the Romans. Read more : OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - Books
OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - On-screen team
Production team
Find out more about presenter Guy de la Bédoyère and the other experts making up the on-screen team. Read more : OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - On-screen team
OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - Taking it further: Courses
Production team
Take your interest in the Romans to the next level with one of our Open University courses. Read more : OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - Taking it further: Courses
OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - Weblinks
Production team
Learn more about Roman Britain by following our links. Read more : OU on the BBC: Romans in Britain - Weblinks
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