Somerset: A Historical Journey from the Stone Age to World War II

Somerset, a county in South West England, is a treasure trove of historical sites and landmarks that tell the story of its fascinating past. From the Stone Age to World War II, Somerset has played a significant role in shaping the history of Britain.

Somerset: Stone Age to WWII (Visitors' Historic Britain)

by Mick Davis

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	27851 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	162 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Stone Age

Somerset's earliest inhabitants were nomadic hunter-gatherers who arrived during the Stone Age. Evidence of their presence can be found in the caves of Cheddar Gorge, where tools and animal bones have been discovered.

Iron Age

During the Iron Age (c. 800 BC - 43 AD),Somerset was inhabited by Celtic tribes. These tribes built hillforts, such as Ham Hill and Cadbury Castle, as defensive strongholds.

Roman Era

The Romans invaded Britain in 43 AD and established a province called Britannia. Somerset became part of the Roman Empire, and the Romans built roads, towns, and villas in the county.

Saxon Era

After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Somerset was invaded by Anglo-Saxon tribes in the 5th and 6th centuries AD. The Saxons established kingdoms in the area, and the county became part of the Kingdom of Wessex.

Norman Era

In 1066, the Normans invaded England and conquered Somerset. The Normans built castles in the county, such as Taunton Castle and Dunster Castle, to control the local population.

Medieval Era

During the Middle Ages, Somerset became a prosperous county. The wool trade flourished, and the county's churches and abbeys were expanded and embellished.

Tudor Era

The Tudor period (1485-1603) saw the rise of the Protestant Reformation in Somerset. The county's monasteries were dissolved, and their lands were sold to private individuals.

Stuart Era

During the Stuart era (1603-1714),Somerset was a stronghold of Royalist support during the English Civil War (1642-1651). The county's Royalist leader, Sir Ralph Hopton, was defeated at the Battle of Langport in 1645.

Georgian Era

The Georgian period (1714-1830) saw the development of agriculture and industry in Somerset. The county's canals and turnpikes were built, and new towns and industries were established.

Victorian Era

The Victorian era (1837-1901) was a time of great change and prosperity for Somerset. The county's railways were built, and its cities and towns expanded rapidly.

Edwardian Era

The Edwardian era (1901-1914) was a period of relative peace and stability in Somerset. The county's economy continued to grow, and its population increased.

World War I

Somerset played a significant role in World War I (1914-1918). The county's shipyards and factories produced ships and munitions for the war effort, and many of its men served in the armed forces.

World War II

Somerset was also heavily involved in World War II (1939-1945). The county's ports were used to transport troops and supplies, and its factories produced aircraft and other war materiel.

Somerset's rich and varied history is reflected in its many historical sites and landmarks. From the Stone Age to World War II, the county has played a significant role in shaping the history of Britain. Today, visitors to Somerset can explore these historical sites and learn about the fascinating stories that have shaped the county's past.

Somerset: Stone Age to WWII (Visitors' Historic Britain)

by Mick Davis

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	27851 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	162 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE