Historical Background of Roman Gaul
Roman Conquest and Control
Vercingetorix and Caesar
Gaul was composed of many tribes, many of whom were friendly with Rome. Conquest of southern Gaul began in 121 BC. There was steady trade between the two regions by 60 BC. In 58 BC, the Galls felt threatened by Germanic tribes to the east, so Julius Caesar campaigned to keep Gaul safe from these possible invaders. Many of Caesar's allies, thankful for his help and eager for his protection, peacefully submitted to him. He continued to help fight off Germanic barbarians, and by 54 BC, most of Gaul was under his control. Caesar's conquest of Gaul helped him to build his power and his province, causing him to rise to prominence. However, in 53 BC, Vercingetorix led the Averni tribe in a rebellion against Caesar's forces. After much battle and bloodshed, Caesar put down this rebellion and had truly secure control of Gaul. This Roman control did not wane until the 3rd century during a time of plague and famine. When the empire was split into east and west, Gaul was neglected and it fell to Germanic invaders within a mere 15 years of the split. Although Gaul still relied on Rome, they eventually became very friendly with the Germanic invaders and formed a new age and culture in the region.
Relationships in Gaul
Many tribes in Gaul were fairly friendly with each other. They traded and allied in times of war. Some tribes, however, threatened the peace amongst these tribes. The Helvetii planned a mass migration through the lands of other tribes in 58 BC, causing the concerned tribes to seek the help of Julius Caesar. Most tribes were friendly with Rome, but some were hostile and rebelled. The Parisii and Averni allied in the 53 BC rebellion against Caesar. Besides these few early setbacks, Roman Gaul was peaceful until the Germanic invasions at the beginning of the 5th century.
Romanization
Map of Lutetia, later known as Paris
Much like in Britain, the Romans began a process of heavy Romanization of culture, particularly in southern Gaul. Also similar to Britain, the governing elite were the first to adopt new institutions. The Romans created cities complete with streets, aqueducts, amphitheatres, forums, baths, and basilicas. The road network allowed for growing interaction and trade among various cities. Some of these cities are still standing today, such as Paris, which was first known as Lutetia. The main source of trade was from goods made my artisans. The Romans brought certain crafting methods, such as glass-making, to Gaul, causing even more Roman assimilation. Agriculture continued in the country side on large estates. Although some crops were traded, Gaul was not as important a food source for Rome as other regions like Egypt. The Romans even brought their law codes and highly-organized government with them. Cities had governing bodies and councils made up dominantly of aristocrats. Because of the success of these advanced political institutions, life in Gaul was very civilized. The Latin language began to meld with the Celtic language, creating modern-day French. Just as in Britain, all of Rome's influences greatly shaped what France is like today.
What I found interesting
I find it very intriguing how similar Romanization in Gaul was to Romanization in Britain. Most people fairly willingly adopted Roman culture in both regions. In modern times, some ethnic groups try very hard to preserve their ancient culture. However, the Gallic people transformed very willingly, which seems very strange to me. Although the Romans were very powerful, I would have wanted to keep my culture. Also, the Romans created the modern-day capital of France, which is very culturally influential today. It is fascinating that the Romans' creations hundreds of years ago still have an enormous impact on the world today. Although there was a long and differing period between classical times and Renaissance times, the cultural impacts have lasted, and it is almost safe to say that the Romans made Western Europe what it is today!
Another fascinating aspect of the Romanization is that it seems like most tribes transitioned almost seamlessly from rural tribal life to civilized urban life. In modern times, it is very difficult for people to transition even from a suburb to a city, and disparities were even larger back then! This really highlights how effective the Roman institutions were. These huge cultural transitions, and their striking similarities to Britain, are what I find interesting about Gaul.
Another fascinating aspect of the Romanization is that it seems like most tribes transitioned almost seamlessly from rural tribal life to civilized urban life. In modern times, it is very difficult for people to transition even from a suburb to a city, and disparities were even larger back then! This really highlights how effective the Roman institutions were. These huge cultural transitions, and their striking similarities to Britain, are what I find interesting about Gaul.