Overview
This lecture explores what happened in Britain after the Roman withdrawal, examining social adaptation, formation of new identities and kingdoms, and the spread of Christianity.
Life in Britain After Rome
- The Roman Empire withdrew from Britain around the early 5th century CE, ending central administration.
- Local populations had to adapt to the absence of Roman structures and military protection.
- Former Roman towns and infrastructure fell into disuse or were repurposed by local communities.
- Daily life shifted from urban centers to rural villages and self-sufficiency.
Formation of New Identities and Kingdoms
- People formed new local identities distinct from the prior Roman-British culture.
- Regional power centers and local leaders gained influence, eventually developing into early kingdoms.
- Tribal and family ties became more important in organizing society and land ownership.
- Over centuries, these groups evolved into identifiable Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.
Conversion to Christianity
- Christianity was present in Roman Britain but became less organized after the Roman departure.
- Conversion efforts picked up gradually with missions from Ireland, Gaul, and later Rome.
- The process took several centuries, with different regions adopting Christianity at different times.
- New religious identities helped unify emerging kingdoms and distinguish them from pagan communities.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Roman withdrawal — the end of Roman control over Britain, leading to loss of central authority.
- Anglo-Saxon kingdoms — new political entities in Britain formed by migrants and local populations after Rome.
- Paganism — religious beliefs in Britain prior to widespread Christian conversion.
- Christianity — monotheistic religion that gradually spread across Britain after the Roman era.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review timelines of the Roman withdrawal and the formation of new kingdoms.
- Read about the role of missionaries in the Christianization of Britain.
- Study the shift from Roman to early medieval material culture in archaeological sources.