The Ancients The Saxons
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May 22, 2025 Peter Heather, a Professor of Medieval History at King's College London, dives into the enigmatic world of the Saxon migrations and their profound impact on post-Roman Britain. He discusses the rise of Saxon mercenaries amidst the collapse of Roman order and their transformation of British society. Heather also highlights the cultural shifts from Romano-British to Germanic traditions, the power struggles between Saxons and Romanized Britons, and the emergence of new Saxon kingdoms during this tumultuous period.
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Origins and Identity of Saxons
- The Saxons first appear in Roman sources around 300 AD, especially in the Channel region as raiders.
- They lived in northern Germany and southern Denmark, speaking a Germanic language closely related to their identity.
Saxon Raids Threaten Roman Empire
- Saxons posed a seaborne raiding threat to Roman Britain and northern Gaul, often rowing along the Channel coast.
- Romans built Saxon shore forts and appointed a Count of the Saxon Shore by late 4th century to counter Saxon raids.
End of Roman Protection in Britain
- Roman military protection of southern Britain ended around 408-410, removing central Roman defense.
- This vulnerability opened the door for Saxon mercenary involvement and raiding into Britain.