Sensing that the Great Fire of Rome in 64 (though entertaining) was damaging his public image, the Emperor Nero looked around for someone to blame.

Agricola, tasked with subduing the people of Britain to Roman colonial government, persuaded them to wear servitude as a badge of refinement.

A proud British king, taken to Rome as a trophy of Empire, refused to plead for his life.

Suetonius Paulinus, Governor of Britain, hoped to enhance his reputation.