Viking Migration and Settlement
The Viking presence in England was a significant aspect of medieval migration to Britain. Their experiences were shaped by various factors:
Highlight: Vikings were attracted to England's wealth, fertile soil, and established trading links.
Vikings initially raided England but later settled, particularly in the Danelaw region. Their experiences varied:
- Some Vikings lived peacefully, establishing businesses and integrating into local communities.
- Others, especially near the Danelaw boundary, faced ongoing conflicts with Saxons.
Example: In Summer 1015, King Cnut led a Danish army of 10,000 in 200 longships to invade England, eventually ruling for nearly two decades.
The relationship between Vikings and Saxons evolved over time:
- Initially hostile due to raids and conflicts.
- Improved under King Cnut's rule, with Saxon nobles given new earldoms.
- Generally good relations in settled areas, with Vikings contributing to local economies.
Vocabulary: Danegeld - A tax paid to Viking raiders to prevent attacks.
Norman Migration and Conquest
The Norman Conquest in 1066 marked a significant turning point in English history, leading to substantial migration from Normandy:
Definition: The Norman Conquest refers to the invasion and subsequent rule of England by William the Conqueror and his Norman followers.
Reasons for Norman migration:
- Belief that William had been promised the English throne.
- Opportunities for land acquisition and exploitation of trade routes.
Highlight: The impact of the Norman Conquest on English language and society was profound and long-lasting.
Experiences of Norman migrants:
- Many faced hostility and resentment from the Saxon population.
- Normans held positions of authority through the feudal system.
- They benefited from land redistribution following the conquest.
Quote: "Land in England was now fully owned by the King. He kept some for himself, gave some to the church, and then shared most of the rest with those who were loyal to him (Norman nobles)."
Jewish Migration and Experiences
Jewish migration to medieval England was characterized by initial royal support followed by increasing persecution:
- Invited by William I in 1070 to provide financial services.
- Given "special status" as "property of the king" for protection.
Highlight: Jews played a crucial role in England's economy as moneylenders, as usury laws prevented Christians from lending money.
Experiences of Jewish migrants:
- Initially well-respected in small communities for supporting businesses.
- Faced growing antisemitism due to resentment over loan interest rates.
- Subjected to discriminatory laws and violence.
Example: The 1275 Statute of Jewry forced Jews to wear yellow armbands and prohibited them from charging interest on loans.
The persecution culminated in the expulsion of Jews from England in 1290, unless they converted to Christianity.
Skilled Workers and Merchants
England also attracted skilled workers and merchants from Europe:
- Flemish weavers brought valuable skills to the English cloth industry.
- Hansa merchants from Germany were given trading rights and established the Steelyard in London.
Highlight: By the mid-1400s, German merchants controlled most of England's cloth industry.
Experiences of these migrants varied:
- Many contributed significantly to local economies and were welcomed.
- Some faced periodic hostility, especially during times of political tension.
Example: During the Peasants' Revolt in 1381, about 150 migrants were murdered, and the Hansa merchant steelyard was burned down.
This overview demonstrates the complex and varied nature of medieval migration experiences in England, highlighting both the contributions of migrants and the challenges they faced in a changing society.
