Sunday, May 19, 2024

Ancient British History

Welcome to the fascinating and mist-shrouded world of Ancient British History. The historian’s task is frustrating but exhilarating, deciphering old manuscripts, exploring Roman ruins, and following the trail of the elusive King Arthur. All these things are found herein–the columns explore Britain from the Bronze Age to the Norman Conquest. Come on and in and enjoy!

The Beginning of the World?

The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, which was written by many different writers over a long period of time, has this interesting log entry for 616 A.D.: And...

The Heptarchy: Anglo-Saxon Ascendancy

Let us take a step back from religious fervor for a moment and focus on the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms themselves. The Heptarchy: Anglo-Saxon Ascendancy The first...

Cadwallon: Leader of Gwynedd

The other man in the alliance against Edwin (besides Penda) was Cadwallon, king of Gwynedd. He is not to be confused with his predecessor,...

Life in Anglo-Saxon England

Put yourself in the shoes of a member of a Germanic tribe living in England in the turbulent first millenium A.D. If you’re a warlord,...

Battle of Hastings, The Finale

The Battle of Hastings had raged on for most of the day, and Harold and the Saxon defenders still held the high ground, despite...

Stamford Bridge: The Final End of the Viking Threat

Harald Hardrada, the King of Norway, and the two were itching for a fight, with an eye toward gaining the throne of England. The...

Edward the Martyr

The troublesome genealogy that was prevalent throughout ancient history rose its ugly head again in 975, when King Eadgar died and left his son,...

A Curious Adherence to Hereditary Right

Arthur was barely a teen. He certainly was not a warrior. Yet he was king. Why? Forget the story of the Sword in the Stone...

Anglo-Saxon Infighting: Everyone Wants to Be King

In the last article, the focus was on the settlement and leaders of the various Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. Much of this information is verifiable from...

Vikings: Mobile Fighting Machines

One thing the Vikings did seemingly better than the Saxons was fight on the run. By this is meant that the Vikings (and Norsemen)...