The Western Kingdom: The Birth of Cornwall

The Roman Empire collapsed in the fifth century, leading to the remaking of Western Europe. In south-west Britain, old tribal authorities and identities reasserted themselves, leading to the formation of the Western Kingdom. Cornwall's unique language, culture, and heritage survived even after politically merging with England in the tenth century, and it is a tale of warfare, trade, survival, and defiance in the face of defeat.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

In the fifth century, the Roman Empire crumbled, ushering in a period of immense turmoil that would shape Western Europe's destiny. As the empire fell, ancient tribal authorities and identities resurfaced in south-west Britain, giving rise to a ruling elite that oversaw a vibrant and forward-thinking kingdom. With trade networks spanning across the Atlantic coast of Europe and even reaching the Mediterranean, this ruling elite and their descendants would go on to forge a new kingdom that would endure for centuries, leaving an indelible mark on both identity and culture.

The Western Kingdom, specifically focusing on Cornwall, is a captivating tale of resilience and perseverance. Despite being politically merged with England in the tenth century, Cornwall managed to retain its unique language, culture, and heritage. This remarkable story unfolds through a series of conflicts, trade ventures, and unwavering determination in the face of defeat.

The Cornish people, known for their distinctive dialect and strong sense of community, have a rich history that dates back thousands of years. They were fiercely independent and often clashed with the English ruling elite, who sought to impose their own culture and language on the region. However, the Cornish refused to be subjugated, and their defiance would ultimately contribute to their survival and the preservation of their unique identity.

One of the key events in the history of Cornwall was the Battle of Edington, which took place in 978. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned by the English army, the Cornish managed to hold their ground and inflict a significant defeat on their adversaries. This victory showcased the Cornish people's bravery and determination, and it served as a reminder of their ability to stand up against oppressive forces.

Trade was another crucial aspect of Cornwall's history. The kingdom's location on the Atlantic coast made it a strategic hub for trade with Europe and the Mediterranean. Cornish merchants were skilled in navigating the seas and were known for their ability to trade goods such as tin, wool, and fish. This trade not only brought wealth to Cornwall but also facilitated cultural exchange and the spread of ideas.

Despite the challenges and hardships faced by Cornwall, its people never lost sight of their identity or their heritage. They continued to celebrate their traditions, languages, and customs, and they worked to preserve their unique cultural heritage for future generations. Today, Cornwall is a thriving region with a strong sense of community and a proud history. Its unique language, culture, and heritage continue to inspire and captivate people from all over the world, and it serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the Western Kingdom, particularly the story of Cornwall, is a testament to the power of resilience and the enduring spirit of a people. Despite political mergers and challenges, Cornwall managed to retain its unique language, culture, and heritage. Through warfare, trade, and perseverance, the Cornish people forged a new kingdom that would endure for centuries, leaving an indelible mark on both identity and culture. The story of Cornwall serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our heritage and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803990002