Page "Roman Britain" Paragraph 27

The first Antonine occupation of Scotland ended as a result of a further crisis in 155-157, when the Brigantes revolted.

With limited options to despatch reinforcements, the Romans moved their troops south, and this rising was suppressed by Governor Cnaeus Julius Verus.

Within a year the Antonine Wall was recaptured, but by 163 or 164 it was abandoned.

The second occupation was probably connected with Antoninus ' undertakings to protect the Votadini or his pride in enlarging the empire, since the retreat to the Hadrianic frontier occurred not long after his death when a more objective strategic assessment of the benefits of the Antonine Wall could be made.

The Romans did not entirely withdraw from Scotland at this time, however: the large fort at Newstead was maintained along with seven smaller outposts until at least 180.