Forming of European Nations Flashcards
What does the name ‘Vikings’ mean in Old Norse?
‘Pirate raid’
The term reflects their raiding activities during the Viking Age.
In which time period did the Vikings dominate Northern Europe?
About 700 to 1100 CE
This period is often referred to as the Viking Age.
Which three Germanic tribes came to England from continental Europe?
- Angles
- Saxons
- Jutes
These tribes contributed to the formation of early English culture.
Who united the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms in the 870s?
King Alfred the Great
He is known for his defense against Viking invasions.
Who became the first King of England in 927?
Aethlstan
He was the grandson of Alfred the Great.
What significant event happened in England in 1066?
The Norman Conquest
Led by William the Duke of Normandy after King Edward died without an heir.
What major battle did William the Duke of Normandy win to control England?
The Battle of Hastings
This battle was pivotal in establishing Norman rule in England.
What legal system did Henry II help establish in England?
The Common Law system
This system created uniform laws across England.
What document did King John sign in 1215?
The Magna Carta
This document limited royal power for the first time.
What was France during the time of the Capetians?
A collection of small feudal lands
This structure characterized the political landscape of medieval France.
Who was elected to the throne by nobles in 987 CE?
Hugh Capet
His election marked the beginning of the Capetian dynasty.
What major conflict occurred from 1337 to 1453 between England and France?
The Hundred Years’ War
This war was fought over territorial disputes and claims to the French crown.
What was the significant impact of Joan of Arc during the Hundred Years’ War?
She led a French army to victory at Orleans
Her leadership inspired the French to rally against the English.
What was one of the key effects of the Hundred Years’ War?
- Each country feels unity
- Helps lead to the decline of feudalism
- More people in towns
- New middle class willing to pay taxes for armies
The war significantly altered the social and political landscape in both England and France.
When did the Visigoths convert to Christianity?
In 587
This conversion marked a significant cultural shift on the Iberian Peninsula.
Which dynasty invaded the Iberian Peninsula in the late 700s?
The Umayyad dynasty
Their invasion led to significant changes in the region’s demographics and culture.
What was the Reconquista?
The Christian reconquering of the Iberian Peninsula
This effort lasted approximately 700 years.
Who threw off Mongol rule in Russia?
Ivan III (Ivan the Great)
His actions helped to centralize power and expand the Russian nation.
What church did Ivan III adopt from the Byzantine Empire?
Eastern Orthodox Church
This adoption had a lasting influence on Russian culture and religion.
Fill in the blank: The Vikings raided European towns and settled in other areas, including _______.
[England]
