Anglo-Saxon Britain and Viking Invasions

Anglo-Saxon Britain

• The Anglo-Saxons, a group of Germanic tribes (Angles, Saxons, Jutes), migrated to Britain in the 5th and 6th centuries.
• They established kingdoms in southern and central Britain, replacing much of the Romano-British population.
• Anglo-Saxon society was hierarchical, with a warrior culture emphasizing kinship.
• They developed a language that forms the basis of modern English.
• Important Anglo-Saxon kings include Alfred the Great, who resisted Viking invasions and promoted literacy.

Viking Invasions

• Vikings, Scandinavian seafarers, launched raids across Europe, including Britain, from the late 8th century.
• Motivations included population pressure, wealth, and expanding trade routes.
• They often targeted monasteries and coastal settlements.
• Initially focused on looting, Viking activities evolved into settlement and conquest.
• Vikings established trade routes and influenced economic and political structures.
• Their arrival led to conflict, alliances, and cultural exchange with Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.
• The Battle of Maldon exemplifies Anglo-Saxon resistance to Viking attacks.
• Guthrum, a Viking leader, converted to Christianity and became a king.

Norman Conquest

• The Norman Conquest, the invasion of England by William, Duke of Normandy, occurred in 1066.
• Edward the Confessor's death triggered William's claim to the English throne.
• The Battle of Hastings saw William's decisive victory over Harold Godwinson's English army.
• William's victory significantly altered English history.
• The Norman Conquest replaced the Anglo-Saxon aristocracy with Norman nobles, transforming the political landscape.
• Norman architecture, language, and customs significantly influenced English culture.

Key Differences and Similarities

• Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, and Normans: Anglo-Saxons settled, Vikings raided/settled, and Normans conquered, impacting British development in diverse ways.
• Cultural Exchange: Viking influence on language and Norman contributions to architecture demonstrate significant cultural exchanges.
• Political Impact: Establishment of Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, Viking alliances, and Norman political overhaul represent varied but impactful political changes.
• Social Structure: Anglo-Saxon society was hierarchical, less rigidly structured than the Norman feudal system; Vikings also influenced social networks.
• Economic Impact: Anglo-Saxon trade and agriculture, Viking trade routes, and the feudal economic system established by the Normans all significantly shaped the British economy.