Saxonians

The term Saxonians refers to the historical Germanic peoples who inhabited parts of Central and Northern Europe, particularly during the Migration Period and the early Middle Ages. They are primarily known for their expansion and settlement across the North Sea coast and into Britain, where they became a dominant force alongside the Angles and Jutes. Early sources mention Saxons as a confederation of tribes, rather than a single unified entity.

Historically, the Saxons were renowned warriors and skilled seafarers. Their territories encompassed what is now northwestern Germany and Denmark. From these homelands, they engaged in raiding and eventually settlement in areas beyond their original reach. The Anglo-Saxon settlement of Britain, beginning around the 5th century CE, is a significant chapter in their history, leading to the formation of various Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.

The Saxon language, an ancestor of modern English, developed from the dialects spoken by these migrating peoples. While their influence in continental Europe waned over time due to pressures from neighboring powers like the Franks, their legacy in Britain was profound, shaping its language, culture, and political landscape for centuries. The concept of "Saxon" as a distinct identity gradually blended with other Germanic groups and the indigenous populations of the lands they settled.