Prehistoric Britain Overview

The time period between the end of the last Ice Age and the beginning of agriculture in Britain, marked by a shift in diet and hunting practices.

A type of prehistoric monument in Britain, consisting of circular enclosures formed by banks and ditches. These enclosures often contained stone circles, with some reaching massive size.

Stone structures in Britain dating back to the Neolithic period, often used for rituals and astronomical observations. They are characterized by concentric circles of standing stones, with the most famous example being Stonehenge.

The period in human history characterized by the development of agriculture, which led to significant changes in lifestyle, social organization, and technology. In Britain, this period saw the emergence of farming, settlements, and new tools.

A large, rectangular wooden dwelling used by Neolithic people in Britain. These homes were often long and narrow and likely housed multiple families.

Prehistoric structures in Britain that served as burial sites for the deceased. They are typically long, narrow earth mounds with chambers for interment.

A distinct archeological period marked by the development of advanced stone tools and hunting techniques, culminating in the evolution of modern humans. This era saw the development of a wider range of tools and techniques for hunting, survival, and artistic expression.

A type of prehistoric arrowhead design characterized by a distinct leaf shape. These arrowheads were often meticulously crafted and reflect the social changes and shared expertise of the time.

A deadly disease that spread rapidly throughout Europe in the 14th century killing millions of people.

The Black Death killed a significant number of people in a short period of time, causing a severe labor shortage. This shortage resulted in increased wages for workers because there were fewer workers to do the jobs.

The Black Death triggered a significant population decline, leading to labor shortages and increased wages. This resulted in peasant unrest and calls for social change.

A series of conflicts in England from 1455 to 1485 involving the House of Lancaster and the House of York.

The Battle of Bosworth Field marked the end of the Wars of the Roses when King Richard III was defeated by the future King Henry VII.

Following the Battle of Bosworth Field, the Tudor dynasty began. Henry VII ascended to the throne, marrying Elizabeth of York, uniting the Houses of Lancaster and York.

Henry VII was the first Tudor king and ruled from 1485 to 1509, setting the groundwork for a powerful and influential dynasty that shaped English history.

Henry VIII, born second, initially had a career in the church but inherited the throne.

Henry VIII married six times, seeking a son to secure his legacy and control of England.

Henry VIII broke from the Catholic Church and established the Church of England because the Pope refused to grant him an annulment from Catherine of Aragon.

Edward VI came to the throne after the death of Henry VIII. He died in 1553 without a male heir, leaving the throne in contention.

Mary I, a devout Catholic, ascended to the throne, repealing her father and brother's reforms and enforcing Catholicism. This resulted in the Marian Persecution, a campaign against Protestants.

Elizabeth I inherited the throne after Mary's death. She remained unmarried and was known for her intelligence and diplomacy.

Elizabeth's reign was a golden age for England, known for its economic growth, cultural flourishing, and powerful navy.

During the Tudor period, agriculture was the dominant economic activity, employing 90% of the population. This lifestyle was harsh, characterized by low life expectancy.

A technological period marked by the introduction of bronze tools and weapons, replacing stone implements. This period witnessed advancements in crafting, agriculture, and social structures.

A strong and durable metal alloy made from copper and tin. Bronze was valued for creating tools, weapons, and decorative objects.

Bronze allowed for more detail and intricacy in crafting compared to stone. This led to the creation of sophisticated weapons like daggers, halberds, and axes.

The practice of intentionally damaging weapons before burial to prevent their reuse. It reflects the Bronze Age's belief in preventing future conflicts.

The period between 2200 BC and 1200 BC, characterized by bronze tools, weapons, and elaborate pottery. It also saw the rise of social structures and the development of land ownership.

The beginning of the use of iron tools and weapons, replacing bronze. It drastically changed civilization development and the way humans lived.

A process involving the extraction of iron from ore, which was a significant step in the Iron Age.

A group of Iron Age elite who emerged during the early stages of the Iron Age. They were known for building fortified forts and establishing livestock farming practices.

The decline of the Hallstatt culture led to the rise of numerous other groups, including the Mycenaeans, Greeks, Etruscans, Romans, and Celts, who played a significant role in shaping ancient Europe.

A prominent group in the Iron Age who played a crucial role in the history of Western Europe. They were known for their iron weapons and armor and their widespread settlements.

The Roman general who attempted to conquer Britain in 55 and 54 BC. He aimed to disrupt trade routes and believed Britain was a valuable source of silver.

The Roman Emperor who successfully launched a large-scale invasion of Britain in 43 AD. This marked the start of significant Roman influence in the region.

The queen of the Iceni tribe who led a rebellion against the Roman Empire after her husband's death. Her forces inflicted heavy losses on the Romans, but they were eventually defeated.

The establishment of Roman rule in Britain, marked by the implementation of taxes, advancements in mining and agriculture, and the introduction of Roman culture, including roads, baths, and amphitheaters.

The gradual decline and fall of the Roman Empire, leading to the loss of their control over Europe, including Britain. This event marked the end of Roman rule in Britain and the beginning of a new era.

The execution of Charles I in 1649 shocked Britain and Europe, leading to Charles II's failed attempt to reclaim the throne with Scottish support.

Oliver Cromwell ruled as Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland after the execution of Charles I, establishing a republic known as the Commonwealth.

Charles II was restored to the throne in 1660, marking the beginning of the Restoration period, which saw a revival of arts and science.

The Great Plague of 1665 and the Great Fire of London in 1666 were devastating events that significantly impacted the country.

James II, Charles II's Catholic brother, succeeded him as King but faced strong opposition due to his religious views and unpopular policies.

William of Orange and Mary II invaded England, leading to James II's flight and their coronation as King and Queen, establishing a Protestant monarchy.

The reign of William III and Mary II was a peaceful period for England, characterized by religious tolerance and political stability.

The Act of Union in 1707 united England and Scotland, creating Great Britain, a significant event in British history.

Poverty was widespread in the Stuart era, exacerbated by population growth and harsh living conditions.

Poor laws were implemented to help the poorest members of society during the Stuart era, providing some relief from hardship.

Many poor people emigrated to the New World during the Stuart era in hopes of improving their lives and escaping poverty.

Gender roles were strictly defined in the Stuart Era, with women expected to be subservient to men in society.

Aristocratic families often arranged marriages for their children for political or financial gain, rather than for love.

The Industrial Revolution, driven by steam power, canals, and factories, transformed Britain's economy and society in the 18th century.

The Industrial Revolution led to increased agricultural production, but it didn't necessarily make food more affordable for everyone.

The period of time between the 8th and 11th centuries marked by Scandinavian raids on Western Europe, primarily focused on coastal settlements in England, Scotland, and Ireland.

The first major violent act by Viking raiders in 793 AD, targeting a Christian monastery on the island of Lindisfarne in England, signaling the beginning of the Viking Age.

A group of Vikings led by Evar the Boneless, son of Ragnar Lothbrok, who decided to establish a permanent presence in Britain instead of just raiding.

King of East Anglia who attempted to appease the Great Heathen Army in 865 by offering provisions and shelter, but was captured and killed.

The Viking stronghold in England, established after the Viking conquest in 870, encompassing London and five boroughs ruled by Viking elites.

King of Wessex, considered the most important Anglo-Saxon ruler, who successfully defended Wessex against the Great Heathen Army and eventually achieved peace with the Vikings through the Treaty of Wedmore.

The battle in 878 AD where Alfred the Great defeated the Vikings, leading to the Treaty of Wedmore and the establishment of boundaries and trade routes between Anglo-Saxons and Vikings.

A significant treaty signed in 878 AD between Alfred the Great and Guthrum, a Viking leader, where the Vikings agreed to leave Wessex and be baptized, establishing boundaries and trade routes between the two groups.

The invasion of England in 1066 by William, Duke of Normandy (later known as William the Conqueror), resulting in the Battle of Hastings and the establishment of the Norman dynasty in England.

A decisive battle fought in 1066 between the Norman and Anglo-Saxon forces, resulting in the victory of William the Conqueror and the beginning of Norman rule in England.

A comprehensive land valuation record for England and Wales compiled by order of William the Conqueror in 1086, providing valuable historical insights into the population, land ownership, and economic infrastructure of the country.

A system of social hierarchy and land tenure established by the Normans in England, where land was granted by the king to lords in exchange for military service, with lower ranks receiving land from lords in exchange for labor or other services.

The period of civil war in England from 1138 to 1154, resulting from a dispute over the throne between Stephen of Blois and Empress Matilda.

The king of England from 1199 to 1216, known for his cruelty, greed, and tyranny, which eventually led to the signing of the Magna Carta.