British History: Before Britain

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Questions and Answers

What significant event occurred in 597 that impacted Christianity in England?

Augustine's visit led to the establishment of one of the best-known monasteries in Kent.

Which three overkingdoms existed in England during the 8th century?

Mercia, Wessex, and Northumberland.

What was Danegeld and when was it significant?

Danegeld was a payment made by Alfred of Wessex to the Vikings in the 870s to ensure peace.

Who were the leaders of the Viking invasions from the west and east?

Norwegian settlers from the west and Danish 'pirates' from the east. Signup and view all the answers

What new administrative system emerged after the Viking invasions?

The system of shires, which included hundreds and tithings, was established. Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the North Sea Empire created around 1028?

The North Sea Empire united England, Norway, and Denmark under Cnut's rule. Signup and view all the answers

Who was Edward the Confessor and what was his situation regarding heirs?

Edward the Confessor was a king whose childless status led him to appoint Harold as his heir. Signup and view all the answers

What was a major consequence of the Battle of Hastings in 1066?

The Battle of Hastings marked the last conquest of England by William, the Norman. Signup and view all the answers

What evidence suggests that the British Isles have been inhabited since 17,000 BCE?

Burial sites provide evidence of early human habitation in the British Isles. Signup and view all the answers

Who were the Picts and Scots, and where were they located?

The Picts were located in Scotland, while the Scots inhabited Ireland, specifically referred to as the 'Scots-Irish.' Signup and view all the answers

What significant military event did Julius Caesar initiate in 55 BCE?

Julius Caesar's military expedition in 55 BCE marked the beginning of Roman interest in the British Isles. Signup and view all the answers

What were the two most important Roman cities in Britain during the Roman occupation?

The two most important Roman cities were York in the north and London in the south. Signup and view all the answers

What marked the end of Roman Britain by 450 CE?

The decline of the Roman Empire, leading to the withdrawal of Roman forces, marked the end of Roman Britain. Signup and view all the answers

What cultural impact did the new invaders, particularly the Germani, have on Britain around the 5th century?

The Germani, including the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes, disrupted Roman culture but also contributed to the emergence of early English identity. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Anglo-Saxon Heptarchy' refer to?

The Anglo-Saxon Heptarchy refers to the seven kingdoms established in early medieval England, with Wessex being the most significant. Signup and view all the answers

How did Christianity interact with the pagan cultures during the Anglo-Saxon era?

Christianity faced challenges re-establishing itself amidst the pagan cultures, leading to missionary efforts and the emergence of saints. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

British History: Before "Britain"

British Isles inhabited since 17,000 BCE
Various peoples and tribes migrated, including Celts.
Romans arrived in 55 BCE (Julius Caesar's expedition) and 43 CE (Emperor Claudius).
Roman rule established a system of client kings and administrators.
Londinium and York were major Roman settlements.
Boudicca's Celtic uprising challenged Roman rule in 61 CE.
Roman rule declined in the late 3rd and early 4th centuries.
Anglo-Saxon invasions began around 450 CE.
Germanic peoples (Angles, Saxons, Jutes) established kingdoms.
Formation of the Anglo-Saxon Heptarchy with various kingdoms but no unified states.
Constant conflict and shifting alliances within various groups.
Viking invasions and settlements began in the 800s.
Alfred of Wessex negotiated treaties with Vikings.
Conversion to Christianity occurred through various groups, including missionaries.
Monasteries played influential roles in spreading Christianity.
Wessex, Mercia, and Northumbria were significant kingdoms.

Anglo-Saxon Period

Germanic invasion and settlement (450-1066) led to the end of Roman rule in Britain.
Various kingdoms created a patchwork of power called the Heptarchy.
Constant conflict between different Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.
Shifting alliances and trade among different kingdoms.
Spread of Christianity in Britain through various groups.
Development of important monasteries, like Westminster Abbey.

Viking Invasions

Viking invasions began in 860s and had impact throughout the 9th Century.
Viking settlements and treaties led to the establishment of Dane-law.
Kings like Alfred of Wessex fought against and negotiated with Vikings.

Period of Transition

Continued conflicts between Anglo-Saxon kingdoms and Vikings.
Rise to power of important figures (e.g., Alfred the Great), and influential kingdoms like Wessex and Mercia.
Establishment of shire systems and local administration.

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Description

Explore the early history of the British Isles, from its first inhabitants to the arrival of the Romans and the subsequent invasions by Saxons and Vikings. This quiz covers key events such as Boudicca's uprising and the establishment of Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, along with the impact of Christianity. Test your knowledge of the diverse peoples and tribes that shaped pre-Britain.