BattlefieldsMutiny of the British Army (Pertinax crisis)
Roman Period

Mutiny of the British Army (Pertinax crisis)

185
North Yorkshire, England
Also known as: Priscus Usurpation Attempt 185 AD · British Army Revolt 185
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
North Yorkshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Mutinous legions
Forces
British legions c. 8,000–12,000.
VS
Victor
Pertinax (with difficulty)
Forces
Pertinax force c. 2,000–3,000
Outcome
Pertinax suppressed mutiny; a soldier called Priscus was offered the purple but declined; Pertinax left Britain
The Battle

History & Significance

The British legions, still resentful after Marcellus's harshness, mutinied under the new governor Pertinax (the future emperor). They tried to kill him and appointed a man called Priscus as emperor — who had the sense to refuse. Pertinax survived (just) and suppressed the mutiny, but asked to be relieved of his command. The episode shows how volatile the British army had become by the late 2nd century.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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