Berichus

Berichus, also sometimes spelled Berikos or Bhericos, is a name appearing in ancient sources, most notably those pertaining to the Roman conquest of Britain. He is primarily known from the writings of Cassius Dio, a Roman historian.

According to Dio, Berichus was an influential figure in Britain who, prior to the Roman invasion under Claudius in 43 AD, was exiled from the island due to internal conflicts or political machinations. Dio states that Berichus fled to Rome and appealed to Claudius for military intervention to restore him to power or otherwise assist him.

The motivations and exact status of Berichus remain somewhat unclear. He may have been a king or chieftain of a particular tribe within Britain, or a noble holding significant influence. Some historians suggest his expulsion may have been related to pro-Roman sentiments that were unwelcome by other factions on the island. Others propose he was simply a political rival ousted from power.

Dio's account presents Berichus's appeal to Rome as one of the justifications, or perhaps a pretext, for Claudius's decision to invade Britain. Roman intervention, at least officially, was portrayed as restoring order and assisting an ally, rather than outright conquest.

Following the Roman invasion, Berichus disappears from historical record. His fate and role in the subsequent Roman administration of Britain are unknown. The limited information available makes a definitive understanding of his character and significance challenging, relying heavily on interpretations of Dio's narrative and the broader historical context of the period.