Key Historical Events and Their Impacts

These flashcards cover major historical events from the Anglo-Saxon arrival in Britain to the aftermath of World War II, focusing on causes, impacts, and significant figures.

Who were the Anglo-Saxons?

A group of tribes from what is now Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands, including the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes.

Why did the Anglo-Saxons migrate to Britain?

To settle on fertile land, some were invited as mercenaries, and the collapse of Roman rule created a power vacuum.

What was the impact of the Anglo-Saxon arrival in Britain?

Formation of kingdoms like Wessex and Mercia, spread of Old English, introduction of pagan beliefs, and decline of Roman towns.

When did the Romans leave Britain?

Around 410 AD.

What led to the Roman withdrawal from Britain?

Pressure from barbarian tribes, economic strain, and political instability.

What was a key impact of the Roman withdrawal?

Decline of Roman buildings, roads, and centralized government.

When did the Vikings first raid England?

First recorded raid occurred in 793 AD at Lindisfarne Monastery.

What were the primary motives for Viking invasions?

To raid for treasure, settle and farm land, driven by overpopulation and political conflict.

What was the Danelaw?

An area in England under Viking control.

What was the Norman Conquest?

The invasion and takeover of England by the Normans in 1066 AD.

Who was William, Duke of Normandy?

He claimed the English throne and led the Norman Conquest.

What event marked the start of the Norman Conquest?

The death of Edward the Confessor in 1066.

What was the significant battle fought during the Norman Conquest?

The Battle of Hastings.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Hastings?

William defeated Harold Godwinson and became King of England.

What was the purpose of the Domesday Book?

A survey of land ownership, resources, and tax assessment in England.

What major document was signed in 1215?

The Magna Carta.

Who was King John?

The king of England who was forced to sign the Magna Carta.

What was the immediate effect of the Magna Carta?

King John ignored it, leading to the First Barons' War.

What did the Magna Carta symbolize?

A step towards democracy and the limitation of royal power.

What was the Black Death?

A 14th-century pandemic that killed an estimated 25-30 million people in Europe.

What were the social impacts of the Black Death?

Decline in population, fear and panic, and questioning of religious authority.

How did the Black Death affect the economy?

Labor shortages led to higher wages and a collapse of the feudal system.

What were King Henry VIII's key beliefs?

He believed in the divine right of kings and sought to strengthen monarchical power.

What was Henry VIII's significant religious action?

His break with the Catholic Church to establish the Church of England.

What event initiated the English Civil War?

The conflict between King Charles I and Parliament over power and authority.

What was the outcome of the English Civil War?

Trial and execution of King Charles I and the temporary establishment of a Commonwealth.

What marked the start of World War I?

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand on June 28, 1914.

What were the main alliances during World War I?

The Triple Alliance and the Triple Entente.

What was the Treaty of Versailles?

The treaty that officially ended World War I and imposed reparations on Germany.

What was the Wall Street Crash of 1929?

A major stock market crash leading to the Great Depression.

Who was William Wilberforce?

A key political leader in the abolition movement against the slave trade.

What was the significance of the Indian Mutiny?

A major revolt against British rule in India, leading to the end of East India Company control.

What characterized the Scramble for Africa?

Rapid colonization and territorial division of Africa by European powers.

What were the causes of the Scramble for Africa?

Economic interests, political rivalries, social motives, and technological advancements.

What was the significance of the Berlin Conference?

It formalized the partition of Africa among European powers without African representation.

What was the result of the Spanish Armada's failure?

The rise of English naval power and the decline of Spanish hegemony.

What did the English Civil War lead to in terms of governmental change?

The temporary abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of a Commonwealth.

What was significant about the execution of King Charles I?

It was the first time a reigning monarch was tried and executed by their own people.

What was the aftermath of the Restoration in England?

The monarchy was restored with Charles II, leading to a shift in parliamentary power.

What did the Abolition of Slavery Act in 1833 achieve?

It freed all enslaved people in the British Empire.

What ideological shift resulted from the Wall Street Crash?

A move towards more active government intervention in economies.

What factors led to Hitler's rise to power in Germany?

Economic turmoil, political instability, and effective propaganda.

What event began World War II?

Germany's invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939.

What was Blitzkrieg?

A military tactic used by Germany involving rapid and coordinated attacks.

What were the consequences of World War II?

Significant loss of life, the establishment of the United Nations, and the beginning of the Cold War.

Describe the legacy of the Black Death.

It initiated long-term social and economic changes, including the decline of feudalism.