Archeologists Discover Buried Relics In Anglo-Saxon Graves | Digging for Britain | Unearthed History

Unearthed History - Archaeology Documentaries・2 minutes read

Archaeologists in Britain are exploring artifacts to understand the warrior culture and violent history of the Anglo-Saxons, who invaded after the Roman troops left in 410 A.D. The excavation at Bamburgh Castle sheds light on daily life, and the discovery of a disabled young man's high-status burial challenges stereotypes of the Anglo-Saxons as caring for the sick and disabled.

Insights

  • The Anglo-Saxon invasion of Britain following the Roman departure in 410 A.D. led to a gradual transition in rule, with archaeological findings offering insights into daily life, blending Roman and Saxon identities, and showcasing the significance of sites like Bamburgh Castle and Lantern Quarry.
  • The excavation of an Anglo-Saxon cemetery, including the discovery of a seriously disabled young man with high-status burial, challenges stereotypes by revealing a society that cared for the sick and disabled, showcasing the complexity and compassion of Anglo-Saxon culture.

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Recent questions

  • Who were the Anglo-Saxons?

    Germanic tribes invading post-Roman Britain.

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Summary

00:00

Anglo-Saxon Archeology Reveals Ancient British History

  • Archaeologists across Britain annually search for clues about past inhabitants, exploring a range of artifacts from skeletons to temples.
  • This year's focus is on the Anglo-Saxons, revealing insights into their warrior culture, ornate burials, and violent history.
  • The departure of Roman troops in 410 A.D. left Britain vulnerable to invasions by tribes from France, Germany, and Scandinavia, collectively known as the Anglo-Saxons.
  • Dorchester on Thames holds key artifacts from the early post-Roman period, shedding light on the blending of Roman and Saxon identities.
  • The transition from Roman to Anglo-Saxon rule was gradual, with archeology providing a glimpse into the lives of people during this period.
  • Bamburgh Castle in Northumbria, occupied for 5,000 years, was a significant site for the Anglo-Saxons, revealing clues about their daily lives.
  • Lantern Quarry in Northumberland unearthed evidence of an ordinary Anglo-Saxon village, showcasing daily activities like milling, weaving, and metalworking.
  • The Anglo-Saxon invasion began in Kent with Warrior brothers Hengist and Horsa, leading to the settlement of Germanic tribes in the region.
  • A massive excavation in Thanet, rich in archeological finds, is uncovering skeletons and artifacts, providing insights into the lives of early settlers.
  • The Medway site in Kent, with 2,500 objects from 230 graves, is being meticulously conserved by local volunteers, offering a unique approach to preserving Anglo-Saxon history.

19:17

Innovative Archaeology Project Uncovers Anglo-Saxon Society

  • Dana's Innovative project aims to make archaeology accessible to everyone, attracting nearly 10,000 visitors in just a few months.
  • The project allows visitors to witness conservation work that is typically hidden in museums, fostering community engagement and interest in local history.
  • Dr. Andrew Richardson showcases intricate artifacts from Anglo-Saxon graves, highlighting the craftsmanship and social status they represent.
  • The cemetery reveals a society of settlers, showcasing powerful families and their symbolic use of jewelry and weaponry.
  • Iron weapons and decorative items found in the cemetery reflect the importance of warfare and status in Anglo-Saxon culture.
  • The excavation of an Anglo-Saxon nunnery at Barclay Castle uncovers artifacts like a whetstone, indicating a focus on learning and scholarship.
  • The discovery of early coinage at the site suggests its significance in trade and commerce, shedding light on the site's historical importance.
  • A unique gold ring, possibly Christian in nature, showcases exceptional craftsmanship and hints at high social status.
  • The re-christianization of Britain unfolds through various missionaries, with the conversion of Anglo-Saxon Kings like Oswald playing a pivotal role.
  • Analysis of skeletons from the Anglo-Saxon Fortress of Bamburgh reveals high rates of dental issues, indicating a diet rich in meat, flour, and sugary drinks.

37:02

Disabled Anglo-Saxon youth receives royal burial

  • The individual in question is likely between 10 and 16 years old based on the state of fusion in their bones.
  • Despite having adult dentition, the person's bones suggest they are still a child.
  • The skeleton reveals a seriously disabled young man who faced a debilitating condition, evident in the abnormality of his knees.
  • The young man's congenital problem likely caused walking difficulties due to severe knee joint malformation.
  • Despite being short and potentially deformed, the individual received a high-status burial, indicating care and support from their community.
  • The discovery challenges stereotypes of Anglo-Saxons, portraying them as caring for the sick, young, elderly, and disabled.
  • Princess Edith's remains, found in Magdeburg, Germany, were confirmed through strontium isotope analysis to have originated from Wessex, England.
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