Anglo-Saxon England

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Learning Modules

• Battle of Badon Hill (c. 500)

  The Battle of Badon Hill, believed to have taken place around the year 500, was a pivotal conflict in British history. Led by the legendary King Arthur, the Britons successfully defended against invading Saxon forces, securing a crucial victory that helped to stem the tide of the Saxon advance. This battle marked a turning point in the struggle for control of Britain and solidified King Arthur's reputation as a heroic leader.

• The Saxon Invasions

  The Saxon Invasions follows the tumultuous clashes between the Saxons and Britons in ancient England. As alliances are forged and broken, power struggles ensue, leading to epic battles and betrayals that will shape the future of the land. Will the Saxons emerge victorious, or will the Britons defend their homeland?

• Conversion of the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity (597)

  In 597, St. Augustine of Canterbury successfully converted the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity, marking a significant shift in religious practices in England.

• The Witenagemot

  The Witenagemot was an Anglo-Saxon council of nobles and clergy that advised the king on matters of governance in medieval England.

• Synod of Whitby (664)

  The Synod of Whitby, held in 664, was a pivotal event in the history of Christianity in Britain. At this meeting, church leaders debated and ultimately decided to follow the Roman liturgical practices over the Celtic ones, leading to a significant shift in religious customs and cultural influences in the region. This decision had lasting consequences for the development of Christianity in Britain and beyond.

• Viking Invasions (8th-11th century)

  Prepare to embark on a thrilling journey back in time to the 8th-11th century, a time of fierce Viking invasions that shook Europe to its core. Witness the legendary warriors, epic battles, and tales of conquest that forever changed the course of history. Join us as we delve into the world of the Vikings.

• Danelaw (9th-11th century)

  Danelaw was a historical region in England during the 9th-11th centuries, where Danish laws and customs prevailed. This period marked a significant influence of Viking culture on the region, shaping its society, language, and governance. Explore the intriguing blend of Anglo-Saxon and Norse traditions in Danelaw.

• Sutton Hoo Burial (7th century)

  Unearth the mysteries of Sutton Hoo, a 7th-century burial site that captivates with its ancient treasures and enigmatic history. Explore the awe-inspiring artifacts, including the iconic helmet and lavish grave goods, that shed light on the lives and beliefs of the Anglo-Saxon elite buried within.

• Viking raids on Lindisfarne (793)

  In 793, Viking raiders descended upon the monastery at Lindisfarne, marking the beginning of the Viking Age in Britain.

• The Great Heathen Army (865)

  In 865, the Great Heathen Army descended upon the lands of England, unleashing a wave of destruction and chaos. Led by fierce Viking warriors, this army struck fear into the hearts of all who crossed their path. Their relentless conquests would forever change the course of history, leaving a lasting legacy of terror and bloodshed.

• Rule of Alfred the Great (871)

  "Get ready for a heart-pounding adventure as a group of unlikely heroes must band together to save their kingdom from an ancient evil."

• Battle of Edington (878)

  In 878, Alfred the Great's forces defeated the Viking army at the Battle of Edington, securing Wessex and laying the foundation for a united England.

• Treaty of Alfred and Guthrum (886)

  The Treaty of Alfred and Guthrum (886) marked a pivotal moment in English history, ending decades of Viking raids and establishing boundaries between Anglo-Saxon and Viking territories.

• Foundation of the Danelaw (c. 880)

  "A mysterious stranger arrives in town, bringing with them secrets that threaten to unravel the community's tightly woven fabric."

• The Siege of Paris (885-886)

  The Siege of Paris in 885-886 was a pivotal moment in the history of France, as Viking invaders besieged the city for months. Despite facing starvation and disease, the Parisians held out against the Norsemen, eventually forcing them to retreat. This epic battle marked a turning point in the Viking raids on France.

• The reign of King Æthelstan (924-939)

  King Æthelstan, the first King of England, established a powerful and united kingdom by conquering Viking territories and the Welsh.

• Battle of Brunanburh (937)

  The Battle of Brunanburh in 937 was a decisive victory for King Athelstan of England, solidifying his rule over the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.

• Battle of Maldon (991)

  The Battle of Maldon (991) was a decisive conflict between Anglo-Saxon forces and Viking invaders, resulting in a tragic defeat for the English.

• St. Brice’s Day massacre (1002)

  On St. Brice's Day in 1002, King Ethelred the Unready ordered the massacre of Danes in England, leading to increased tensions and conflict.

• Battle of Assandun (1016)

  The Battle of Assandun in 1016 was a decisive conflict between King Edmund Ironside and King Canute of Denmark for control of England.

• Reign of Cnut the Great (1016-1035)

  Cnut the Great's reign brought stability and prosperity to England, Denmark, and Norway, establishing him as a powerful ruler in the early 11th century.

• Harthacnut becomes King of England (1040)

  Harthacnut, son of Cnut the Great, ascends to the throne of England in 1040 amidst political turmoil and power struggles.

• Edward the Confessor becomes King of England (1042)

  Edward the Confessor ascends to the throne of England in 1042, ushering in a period of peace and prosperity before his death in 1066.

• Construction of Westminster Abbey (c. 1050)

  The construction of Westminster Abbey in 1050 was a monumental feat of medieval architecture, showcasing the power and influence of the English monarchy.

• Godwinson family exile (1051)

  After being exiled by King Edward the Confessor, the Godwinson family seeks refuge in Normandy, setting the stage for the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.

• Edward the Confessor’s death (1066)

  After ruling England for over two decades, King Edward the Confessor's death in 1066 sparked a succession crisis leading to the Norman Conquest.

• Norman Conquest of England (1066)

  In 1066, William the Conqueror led the Norman invasion of England, forever changing the course of English history.

• The reign of King Edgar the Peaceful (959-975)

  King Edgar the Peaceful's reign was marked by stability and prosperity in Anglo-Saxon England, earning him a reputation as a wise and just ruler.

• The reign of King Æthelred the Unready (978-1016)

  King Æthelred the Unready's reign was marked by Viking invasions, heavy taxation, and a lack of strong leadership, leading to a tumultuous period in English history.

• The Danish invasion of England (1013)

  The Danish invasion of England in 1013 saw King Sweyn Forkbeard overthrow King Æthelred the Unready, marking the beginning of Danish rule in England.

• The Battle of Assandun (1016)

  The Battle of Assandun in 1016 was a decisive clash between the English forces of King Edmund Ironside and the Danish army of Cnut the Great.

• Reign of King Cnut the Great (1016-1035)

  Reign of King Cnut the Great marked a period of stability and prosperity in England, Denmark, and Norway during the early 11th century.

• The reign of King Edward the Confessor (1042-1066)

  The reign of King Edward the Confessor was marked by political turmoil, power struggles, and the eventual Norman Conquest of England in 1066.

• The Battle of Stamford Bridge (1066)

  The Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066 marked a decisive English victory over the Vikings, just days before the pivotal Battle of Hastings.

Learning Resources