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What was king cogidubnus like?

King Cogidubnus was a significant British Celtic ruler during the Roman era, known for his close ties with the Romans and his role as a loyal ally. Here's a general description of King Cogidubnus:

1. Political Prominence:

- Cogidubnus was a powerful regional king from the Regni tribe, based in southern Britain (present-day Sussex and Hampshire).

- He maintained a peaceful and cooperative relationship with the Roman Empire during the 1st century AD, which allowed him to retain considerable autonomy over his territory.

2. Roman Affiliation:

- Cogidubnus became a client king under the Roman administration.

- He was granted the title "Rex et Legatus Augusti in Britannia," which translates to "King and Imperial legate in Britain," reflecting his recognized status as a loyal ally to Rome.

3. Romanization:

- Cogidubnus embraced Roman culture and lifestyle to a significant extent.

- He adopted Roman customs, architecture, and even a Latin name, Tiberius Claudius Cogidubnus.

4. Civic Developments:

- Cogidubnus was responsible for notable civic developments in his territory.

- He supported the construction of Roman-style public buildings and infrastructure, such as the temple at Chichester and the town at Fishbourne.

5. Architectural Patronage:

- Cogidubnus was a patron of the arts and architecture, encouraging the creation of impressive structures.

- He commissioned the building of the monumental palace complex at Fishbourne, which showcases a remarkable blend of Roman and native architectural styles.

6. Cultural Assimilation:

- Cogidubnus' willingness to adopt Roman customs and culture demonstrates his strategic mindset.

- By maintaining a positive relationship with Rome, he secured favorable trade opportunities, political alliances, and cultural exchanges for his kingdom.

7. Legacy and Honorifics:

- Cogidubnus was widely respected and held in high regard by both the Romans and his fellow Britons.

- He was honored by the Romans with prestigious titles and citizenship.

- His image and name appear on various coins, inscriptions, and public monuments, highlighting his lasting impact on the region.

Overall, King Cogidubnus was a skilled diplomat, a pragmatic leader, and a patron of cultural development. His cooperative approach with the Romans allowed his kingdom to flourish and enjoy relative peace and prosperity during a period of significant political and cultural change.

Sculpture

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