The UK, once a global power, was a small island off the coast of Europe.
England's history includes control by Romans, Vikings, Britons, Celts, and Anglo-Saxons.
Roman Influence
Romans claimed most British Isles by 43 CE (except Scotland).
Roman rule ended in 410 CE with the Visigoths sacking Rome.
Post-Roman Britain had a mix of Britons, Romans, and Celts.
Roman influence persisted in laws, religion, and language.
Rise of the Anglo-Saxons
Originally raiders from the Anglos, Saxons, Jutes, and other Germanic groups.
Established permanent roots after Roman departure.
Merged with native Britons over time.
Dominated militarily and politically in Britain.
Anglo-Saxon Era
Often termed as "Dark Ages," though this is misleading.
Introduced new religious beliefs, military tactics, literature, and a unified culture.
Had no written language until conversion to Christianity.
Religion and Beliefs
Pagan beliefs tied to nature; sacred sites often became churches.
Conversion to Christianity introduced written language.
Deities included Woden, akin to Scandinavian Odin.
Days of the week named after Anglo-Saxon gods (e.g., Tuesday from Tiw's Day).
Social Structure
Organized into tribes with chieftains (later kings); male hereditary lines.
Social hierarchy included farmers, merchants, artisans, and slaves.
Women managed household tasks and served drinks at gatherings.
Culture and Lifestyle
Known for storytelling; "Beowulf" is a notable epic.
Celebrated with feasting, singing, and dancing.
Enjoyed mead and beer; men prepared and cooked food.
Military and Warfare
Unified small armies into efficient, large fighting forces.
Used archers, javelin throwers, slingshotters, and horses in warfare.
Fought off Viking invasions under King Alfred the Great.
Decline and Legacy
Anglo-Saxon rule ended in 1066 with Norman invasion.
Despite Norman takeover, the population remained largely Anglo-Saxon.
Contributed to unifying British kingdoms and promoting Christianity.
Conclusion
Anglo-Saxons left a lasting impact, setting the stage for the development of England and its identity.
Further reading available in the book "The Anglo-Saxons: A Captivating Guide to the People Who Inhabited Great Britain from the Early Middle Ages to the Norman Conquest of England."