Britain: Migration, Empires and the People

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the history of Britain, migration, and empires from the lecture notes.

Vikings

Scandinavian pirates and traders known for invading various regions, including England, during the late 8th to early 11th centuries.

Danelaw

Parts of Northern and Eastern England controlled by Danish Vikings, established as a result of their conquests.

Alfred the Great

King of Wessex (871-899) who united England and successfully defended against Viking invasions.

King Cnut

Viking ruler of England from 1016-1035 who also became King of Denmark and Normandy.

Angevin Empire

A historical territory ruled by the English king Henry II that encompassed lands from the Scottish border to the Pyrenees.

Magna Carta

A charter signed by King John in 1215 that limited the powers of the monarchy and established legal rights.

Hundred Years' War

A series of conflicts between England and France from 1337 to 1453, beginning with Edward III's claim to the French throne.

Transatlantic Slave Trade

The forced migration of African people to the Americas, resulting in the trafficking of over 12 million individuals.

Middle Passage

The treacherous sea journey undertaken by enslaved Africans from Africa to the Americas.

Indentured Servants

Individuals who migrated to the Americas and worked for plantation owners in exchange for passage and eventual freedom.

East India Company

A private trading company established by English merchants to facilitate trade with Asia, especially India.

Battle of Plassey

A decisive battle in 1757 where the British defeated the Nawab of Bengal, leading to significant British control in India.

Scramble for Africa

The period of rapid colonization of Africa by European powers in the late 19th and early 20th century.

Windrush Generation

Caribbean migrants who came to Britain after WWII, contributing significantly to British society and culture.

European Economic Community (EEC)

An economic organization established in 1957, which became the European Union (EU) in 1992.

Claudia Jones

A key figure in supporting Caribbean immigrants in Britain and founder of the 'West Indian Gazette'.

Ugandan Asians

Individuals expelled from Uganda by Idi Amin in the 1970s, many of whom were resettled in Britain.