Anglo-Saxons

The Anglo-Saxons came to England about 1,600 years ago. They sailed across the sea from what is now Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands. They built villages and farms all over England. Over time, they made England their home. The name 'England' comes from the Angles, one of their tribes.

Anglo-Saxon Life

The Anglo-Saxons lived in small villages with wooden houses. Most people were farmers who grew food and raised animals. They had their own language called Old English. Families ate meals together in a big hall. Kings and warriors wore swords and shiny helmets.

Kings and Stories

England was divided into several Anglo-Saxon kingdoms at first. One famous king was Alfred the Great. He fought off Viking invaders and helped save his kingdom. The Anglo-Saxons loved stories about brave heroes. The most famous one is a poem called Beowulf, about a hero who fights a monster.

Fun Facts

• The days Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday are named after Anglo-Saxon gods.
• Old English looks very different from the English we speak today.
• The Sutton Hoo ship burial is full of amazing Anglo-Saxon treasures.

Did You Know?

Many English words we use every day, like 'house,' 'bread,' and 'friend,' come from the Anglo-Saxons.