Vellocatus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Vellocatus |
|
|---|---|
| King of the Brigantes | |
| King of the Brigantes | |
| Reign | after AD 51 - AD 69 |
| Predecessor | Venutius (first reign) |
| Successor | Venutius (second reign) |
| Co-ruler | Cartimandua |
| Born | c. 1st century AD |
| Died | After AD 69 |
| Spouse | Cartimandua |
| Father | Unknown |
| Mother | Unknown |
Vellocatus was a king who lived in the first century AD. He ruled over the Brigantes, a powerful tribe in northern Britain.
Contents
Who Was Vellocatus?
Vellocatus started his life in a humble way. He was an "armour-bearer" for Venutius. An armour-bearer was like a personal assistant or bodyguard. Venutius was the husband of Cartimandua, who was the queen of the Brigantes. Queen Cartimandua was an important friend and ally of the Romans.
How Vellocatus Became King
Sometime after the year 51 AD, Queen Cartimandua decided to end her marriage with Venutius. She then married Vellocatus. This was a big surprise to many. Vellocatus was not from a noble family. He was seen as a common person, not a royal.
The Roman historian Tacitus wrote about this event. He said that this decision caused problems for the royal family. Many noble people did not like the idea of a former servant becoming their king.
The Conflict with Venutius
Venutius, the former king, was not happy about losing his power and his wife. He managed to gather many followers. He became a leader for those who did not want Roman rule.
The First Uprising
Venutius led two major rebellions against Queen Cartimandua. The first one happened in the mid-50s AD. The Romans helped Cartimandua. They sent their armies and defeated Venutius's forces.
The Second Uprising
The second rebellion happened in 69 AD. This time, Venutius was successful. He managed to take control of the kingdom. Queen Cartimandua had to be rescued by the Romans. They helped her escape to safety.
What happened to Vellocatus after this is not known. The historical records do not say what his fate was.
