preNorman

Pre-Norman refers to the period in British history before the Norman Conquest of 1066. This era encompasses a vast span of time, from the arrival of the earliest humans in Britain to the eve of the conquest. It is often divided into several distinct phases, including prehistoric Britain, Roman Britain, and Anglo-Saxon England. Prehistoric Britain saw the development of Neolithic cultures, the construction of megalithic monuments like Stonehenge, and the establishment of Iron Age societies. Roman Britain, beginning with the invasion by Claudius in 43 AD, introduced Roman law, language, infrastructure, and Christianity to the island, leaving a lasting impact on its culture and landscape. Following the withdrawal of Roman forces in the early 5th century, Britain experienced the migration and settlement of various Germanic tribes, primarily the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes. This period, known as Anglo-Saxon England, saw the formation of numerous kingdoms, the development of Old English, and the reintroduction of Christianity through missions from Rome and Ireland. The pre-Norman period is characterized by significant cultural shifts, political developments, and the laying of foundations for the future English nation, all of which were profoundly altered by the Norman victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.