History of Normandie

Gallic tribes and Vikings played a large part in the history of Normandie; the Belgian Celts (also known as Gauls) invaded in waves during the 4th and 3rd centuries, BC (the original inhabitants of Normandie were the Ligures and Iberiens). They united under Vercingtorix to attempt to repel the Roman forces in 57 BC; however, they, like so many others, failed. They were Romanized via the same method that the Romans often used - a policy of urbanization and Roman roads. However, in the 3rd century AD, Normandie was bombarded by barbarian attacks. It was during this time that Christianity spread in Normandie. Several monasteries were built, and Saint Mellonius was supposedly the Bishop of Rouen for part of this period. Even before the fall of the Roman empire, "barbaric" tribes had moved into Normandie (mainly through conquest). Vikings first came into play in 820, and returned 20 years later. By 861, Rouen had been sacked 6 times. Much of Normandy's culture comes from the Scandinavians; Many regions, districts and places have names with roots in Scandinavian. Caudebec and Briquebec are good examples, "bec" meaning river. By joining the Scandinavians and the native tribes, one of the mightiest states of the time arose. The Scandivanians famed sea-faring abilities would allow the Normans to successfully attack England.

During Hundred Years War, the province was invaded by the English, since the landing of Henry the 5th (in 1415) until the victory of the french king in Formigny (in 1450). Normandy was very connected to England due to its proximity to the Isle.


Norman the Conqueror was Duke of Normandy; however, his invasion drew forces from all of France. Both he and Harald Hardraada lade claim to the throne of England, and both launched invasions. England was, at this time, ruled by King Harold who was the direct heir to Edward the Confessor. Harald's invasion was stopped at great cost to the English; Harald died in the conflict.

Just a few days after Harold's victory over Harald, William launched his invasion over the English channel. Harold briefly stopped at London to gather more troops, and then went on to the infamous Battle of Hastings. 5,000 Anglo-Saxons and 3,000 Normans died during the battle as well as King Harald.

LIST OF SOURCES:

All sources are online.

Wikipedia (Normandy, History of Normandy, D-Day, Norman Conquest of England)
Real HISTORY OF NORMANDY
Encyclopædia Britannica's Guide to Normandy 1944
Normandy: A Brief History - France.com
Province of Normandy, France (www.discoverfrance.net/France/Provinces/Normandy.shtml)
www.macraesbluebook.com/search/company.cfm?company=461322
Normandy Industries, INC.