The Myth of Starting English History in 1066

Contrary to popular belief, English history does not begin in the year 1066. Early signs of English civilization can be traced back to the Roman era, and even further, to the end of the last ice age.

English History Before 1066

The history of England is rich and complex, with roots that extend far beyond the year 1066. For instance, around 98 AD, the Roman historian Tacitus mentioned the Angli, one of several tribes that worshipped the Goddess Nerthus. Archaeological findings also provide evidence of human habitation in England dating back to even earlier times.

The True Beginning of English History

English history can be traced back to the Roman era when they first conquered England. The year 1066, however, is marked as an important date not as the beginning of English history, but as the start of the Middle Ages in England.

The Battle of Hastings

The Battle of Hastings in 1066 was a pivotal moment in English history. This battle ended the reign of Anglo-Saxon kings and initiated the Norman rule under William the Conqueror. The year 1066 can be seen as the dawn of the Middle Ages in England, which would continue until 22 August 1485.

Significance of 1066

1066 was a crucial year in English history for several reasons:

The Norman Conquest

William the Conqueror, a Duke of Normandy, invaded England in 1066 and defeated the Anglo-Saxon King Harold II at the Battle of Hastings. This victory led to William's coronation as King of England and the establishment of Norman rule.

The Feudal System

The Normans introduced a new feudal system, which affected land distribution and society's structure. This system lasted long after the initial conquest and had a lasting impact on governance and property rights.

Cultural Shift

The Normans brought with them a different cultural and linguistic influence, including the Old Norman language and administrative practices. These changes significantly affected the development of the English language and culture.

Historical Documentation

The events of 1066 and the changes that followed were well-documented, notably in the Domesday Book of 1086, which provided a comprehensive record of landholdings and resources in England.

Political Unity

The conquest played a crucial role in unifying the various Anglo-Saxon and Celtic kingdoms of England under a single monarch, laying the groundwork for the future Kingdom of England.

Conclusion

While the year 1066 is often marked as a turning point in English history, it is not the beginning of English history. It is, however, a significant marker of the start of the Middle Ages in England. This period was fundamentally transformed by the Norman Conquest and the establishment of new systems and cultural influences that shaped the future of England.