Prasutagus facts for kids

Prasutagus was a king of the Iceni tribe. This British Celtic tribe lived in what is now Norfolk, England, around the 1st century AD. Prasutagus is most famous for being the husband of Boudica, a powerful queen.

King of the Iceni

Prasutagus became king of the Iceni during a time when the Romans were taking over Britain. He might have been one of the kings who gave up to the Roman Emperor Claudius in AD 43. This happened after the Romans invaded Britain. Another idea is that he became king after the Iceni tribe rebelled in AD 47.

An Ally of Rome

Prasutagus was an ally of Rome. This meant his tribe could stay somewhat independent. To keep this independence, Prasutagus made the Roman emperor a co-heir to his kingdom. He also named his two daughters as heirs. This was a way to try and protect his family and tribe after he died.

The Roman Takeover

The Roman historian Tacitus wrote that Prasutagus lived a long and good life. However, when Prasutagus died, the Romans did not respect his wishes. They ignored his will and took full control of the Iceni kingdom. They took land from important Iceni leaders. They also took many valuable things from the kingdom. People who had lent money to the Iceni demanded it back. All these actions made the Iceni very angry. This anger led to a big revolt led by Boudica, Prasutagus's wife, in AD 60 or 61.

What Was His Real Name?

Historians and archaeologists have found old coins in Suffolk. These coins have Latin words on them: "SVB ESVPRASTO ESICO FECIT". This means "under Esuprastus Esico made (this)". Some experts think that Esuprastus was Prasutagus's real name. Others believe Esuprastus was a different person.

Meaning of the Name

Some people think "Esuprastus" is a name made of two parts. "Esu-" might come from the name of a god, Esus. It could mean "lord," "master," or "honor." "Prasto-" would then be a shorter version of a personal name. So, the coin might mean "under Lord Prasto-."

Other Iceni Kings

Other coins from a nearby tribe, the Corieltauvi, have similar names like "IISVPRASV" and "ESVPASV." An earlier Iceni king's name, "SCAVO," also appears on coins. This name might be linked to Latin words for "left" or "left-handed." Both Prasutagus's and Scavo's coins look Roman in style. They were likely made within 20 years of each other. Some historians suggest that Esuprastus (Prasutagus) became king after Scavo, following the Iceni rebellion in AD 47.