British Culture & Society - Chapter Two: History Outline

Timeline

• A.D. signifies Anno Domini, which means "in the year of the Lord" and refers to the years after the birth of Jesus Christ.
• B.C. signifies Before Christ, which refers to the years before the birth of Jesus Christ.

Prehistoric Period

• The period is known for its sense of mystery due to the lack of written records.
• The main focus of this period in Britain is on the development of Stonehenge, a significant archaeological monument.
• Stonehenge is significant because of its mysterious construction and purpose.

Roman Period

• During this period, the Roman province of Britannia covered most of present-day England and Wales.
• Hadrian's Wall was built by the Romans to mark the northern boundary of their territory and to protect it from the Picts and other Celtic tribes.
• The primary reason for building villas, baths, temples, and cities by the Romans in Britain was to establish a well-organized infrastructure and to Romanize the native population.
• The lasting reminder of Roman presence in Britain is the Roman architecture, infrastructure, and culture that remained after their departure.

Anglo-Saxon Period

• The Anglo-Saxons had a significant impact on the English countryside, as they cleared forests and established settlements and farms.
• The primary reason for the spread of Christianity in Britain from Rome was the conversion of King Edwin of Northumbria in 627 A.D.
• The Angles and Saxons predominated in England during this period.

Germanic Period

• The Germanic Period saw the invasion and settlement of tribes such as the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes in large numbers.
• The division of the Celts into two branches of languages was caused by the invasion of the Germanic tribes.

Viking Period

• The Viking settlement in Britain was characterized by their raids and establishment of the Danelaw, a region under Viking control.

Decline of Roman Structures

• The decline of most Roman structures in Britain was due to the lack of maintenance and the reuse of building materials by the Anglo-Saxons and other subsequent settlers.