How did the Anglo-Saxons divide up Britain? - Info sheet

When the Anglo-Saxons arrived in Britain, they did not form a single unified nation; instead, they were a collection of distinct tribes, each establishing control over different regions. This led to the creation of several key kingdoms, each with its own territory and associated settlers. Among the most significant of these were five kingdoms. Kent, located in the area of the same name, was settled by the Jutes. The Kingdom of Wessex, in what is now South West England, was home to the West Saxons. East Anglia, comprising the modern counties of Norfolk and Suffolk, was established by the East Angles. The Mercians took over the Midlands, giving rise to the Kingdom of Mercia. Finally, Northumbria, which spanned the lands north of the River Humber, was settled by the Northumbrian people. Each of these kingdoms played a crucial role in the Anglo-Saxon division of Britain.

The period between the end of Roman rule in Britain and the year 1066 saw significant changes in the country's political landscape, largely due to the influence of the Anglo-Saxons and later the Vikings. The long-term impact of these groups on British life is profound, with their legacy evident in various aspects of modern culture, language, and societal structures. Understanding the divisions and influences of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms helps to shed light on the historical development of Britain and the formation of its early political geography.