Celtic history goes back many centuries. The Celts culture and history was never written down but transmitted orally which accounts for the extreme lack of knowledge about them prior to their contact with the classical civilizations of Greece and Rome. The written history about the Celts comes from their enemies or by those who would rule them. Because of this, some of the best information of the Celts comes from archeological research. However, the bravery of the Celts in battle is legendary. They often spurned body armour and went naked into battle. Celtic society was also typically more equal in terms of their gender roles. Women were viewed on equal footing as men, being accomplished merchants, warriors and rulers.