The Late Iron Age in Britain (c. 100 BC – AD 50/Roman conquest) and Europe was characterised by significant social and economic changes, notably increased interaction with the Roman world, the emergence of complex political systems, and specialised production.  Key attributes include: Societal & Political Structure - **Emergence of Tribal Territories & Centres:** The dominance of a warrior aristocracy led to the formation of distinct tribal territories. Large tribal centers, sometimes described as proto-urban settlements or _oppida_, developed as central places for governance, worship, and craft production. - **Warrior-led System:** Sociopolitical organization appears to have been led by powerful warriors and chieftains. - **Increased Population:** The population grew substantially, partly facilitated by agricultural advancements.- **Social Specialization:** Evidence points to specialized artisans and craft workers, particularly in metalwork (gold, silver, iron).  Economy & Trade - **First Coinage:** The introduction and use of the first coinage became a key feature. - **Trade with the Roman World:** There was significant contact and trade with the Roman Empire, evident in the presence of imported Roman goods like coins, glass, and bronze vessels in elite burials and settlements. - **Intensified Agriculture:** The clearing of forests for farming intensified, with new crops like spelt wheat being introduced, and a greater emphasis on livestock, particularly cattle. - **Iron Production:** Iron smelting technology became advanced, producing pure iron of low carbon content for widespread use in tools and weapons.  Settlements & Material Culture - **Hillforts and Oppida:** People continued to live in fortified settlements, including large and elaborate hillforts and oppida. These fortifications were often located on hilltops for defense and surveillance. - **Roundhouses:** The primary domestic structure remained the roundhouse, often with timber frames and thatched roofs. - **Elaborate Metalwork:** A rich artistic tradition developed, especially in fine metalwork (e.g., torcs, brooches, weapon decoration). - **Pottery Innovations:** The period saw new types of pottery, including some wheel-made forms, influenced by continental and Roman styles.  Religion & Ritual - **Druids:** Roman accounts mention religious leaders called Druids, who supposedly performed sacrifices. - **Votive Offerings:** Ritual deposition of military equipment and other wealth items in bogs, rivers, and pits was common. - **Diverse Mortuary Practices:** Both cremation and inhumation burials were practiced, often with rich grave goods for the elite, reflecting social hierarchy. Rituals involving the burial of fragmented human remains are also noted. `Concepts:` `Knowledge Base:`