The Formation of England

Introduction

England's historical significance often overshadowed by Great Britain and the United Kingdom.
England has existed since 927 AD.
Understanding its creation and evolution is key to understanding the formation of Great Britain.

Post-Roman Influence:
- After the Roman Empire left, Anglo-Saxon Germanic tribes migrated to modern-day England.
- Anglo-Saxons aided native Britons against Picts and Scots.
- Turned on Britons, establishing authority by the 7th century.
- Created kingdoms: Essex, Kent, Sussex, Mercia, East Anglia, Northumbria, and Wessex.

Viking Raids:
- Began with the raid on Lindisfarne Monastery in 793.
- By 870, East Anglia fell to Danes; Mercia by 874.
- Northumbria seized by Vikings in 875; Wessex remained under Anglo-Saxon control.
King Alfred's Resistance:
- Alfred of Wessex initially paid Vikings.
- Led to the Battle of Edington, routing Danes, securing Wessex.
- Gained control of parts of Mercia.

After Alfred:
- Edward the Elder and Æthelflæd expanded territories.
- 917: Æthelflæd expanded north; Edward incorporated East Anglia.
- Æthelstan united the Kingdom of York under his rule.
Battle of Brunanburh (937):
- Æthelstan faced an alliance of Scotland, Dublin, and Strathclyde.
- English victory solidified national unity and pride.
Continued Viking Threat:
- Post-Æthelstan, Vikings reclaimed York and parts of Northumbria.
- Edmund of England retook territories, briefly stabilizing the kingdom.

Edgar the Peaceful (959-975):
- Reforms under Edgar stabilized and unified England.
- Upheld Danelaw systems to maintain peace and order.

England's formation was complex, involving migrations, invasions, and unification.
Ultimately achieved under King Edgar with foundational laws and structures.
This evolution set the stage for modern England and its future as part of Great Britain.