The Existence and Role of Wortigern

This chapter discusses the existence of Wortigern, a possible king in Wales, and his role in granting the Isle of Thanet and Kent to Germanic settlers. It explores the tensions between Germanic and British kingdoms, with the British communities viewing themselves as the heirs of Rome and resisting barbarian rule. The chapter also highlights that Wales was likely doing better than expected in the post-Roman era, with evidence of pottery and glass from the continent found in excavations. However, the population in Wales in 500 was estimated to be smaller than before the Roman invasion, and the trappings of Rome persisted despite the withdrawal, reinforcing the separation between east and west.