The Brief History of Old English Period

(From the earliest times to the Norman Conquest: 1066)

The first people inhabiting England of which there are historical records are the Britons, who were a Celtic race, in 55/54 B.C. The romance came, but their first invasion was not permanently successful. About a century later (43-50 A.D) Britain became a Roman Province. The country became more civilized in consequence, agriculture and trade flourished. Cities were built and road constructed, but in the year 410 the Roman region were called back to defend Italy against the Goths. The Britons, who had learnt to rely on the Roman soldiers to defend themselves against the barbaric inhabitants of the North, now resolved to call the help of certain Germanic tribes from beyond the sea, who had been pillaging round teh southern coast. These races became the ancestor of the English people, their language, generally designated as Old English or Anglo Saxon, ultimately became the English Language.

The first important event in the history of the new inhabitants of England was the introduction of Christianity, which took place during the first half of the 7th century. Monasteries sprang up every where and became centres of learning. For a time the civilizing influence of the Church threatened to be arrested by the incasion of the Danes, but the worst was prevented by the geniu og King Albert the Great. (871-901). After his death, however teh influence of the Danes again became stronger, and the country seldom at rest.

A foundation stone of English history is the Anglo Saxon Chronicle. The Chronicle gives the events of English history from the Roman invasion of Britain in 54 B.C. to the middle of 12th century. It was begun by Albert, or under his direction, although it included some still earlier chronicles.  The king alsoo made or directed the translation from Latin to Old English of many important religious, philosohical, and historical books from Europe. These translations did much to advance learning in the kingdom.