11 Who were the original
inhabitants of Britain,
whether they were indigenous or foreign, is as usual among barbarians, little
known. Their physical characteristics are various, and from these conclusions
may be drawn. The red hair and large limbs of the inhabitants of Caledonia point clearly to a German origin. The dark
complexion of the Silures, their usually curly hair, and the fact that Spain
is the opposite shore to them, are an evidence that Iberians of a former date
crossed over and occupied these parts. Those who are nearest to the Gauls are
also like them, either from the permanent influence of original descent, or,
because in countries which run out so far to meet each other, climate has
produced similar physical qualities. But a general survey inclines me to
believe that the Gauls established themselves in an island so near to them.
Their religious belief may be traced in the strongly-marked British
superstition. The language differs but little; there is the same boldness in
challenging danger, and, when it is near, the same timidity in shrinking from
it. The Britons, however, exhibit more spirit, as being a people whom a long
peace has not yet enervated. Indeed we have understood that even the Gauls were
once renowned in war; but, after a while, sloth following on ease crept over
them, and they lost their courage along with their freedom. This too has happened
to the long-conquered tribes of Britain;
the rest are still what the Gauls once were.
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