Why is It Called England and Not Angland?
It is quite evident when we compare the terms 'England' and 'Angland,' a region in northern Germany where the Angles originated from. Interestingly, the Saxons contributed to the names of various regions in England, such as Essex, Sussex, Wessex, and Middlesex. This article delves into the linguistic evolution and historical context behind the naming of England.
The Name Evolution
The linguistic roots of England can be traced back to the time when the Angles, along with the Saxons, were co-invaders. They each brought their own linguistic influences, with Englisc being one of the common languages spoken by these groups. The name 'Angland' eventually evolved into 'England,' but the spelling is often misunderstood.
A Spelling Mistake?
One might wonder why 'England' is not spelled as 'Angland.' It is indeed a spelling mistake in modern terms, similar to how 'America' is not spelled as 'Americar,' 'Russia' as 'Rusher,' or 'India' as 'Hindia.' These names have been spelled as they are for centuries, indicating that these are accepted forms in English. However, as some people pronounce the word 'England,' one might mistakenly believe the 'e' is silent.
The Naming of England
The Angles, also known as Engles, are the true originators of the name 'England.' The southern part of Britain was therefore known as Englond, a name that later evolved into England. The influence of the Saxons is also evident in the current names of certain regions, such as Sussex (South Saxons), Middlesex (Middle Saxons), and Essex (East Saxons).
The Arrival of Germanic Tribes
Before delving into the naming of these regions, it is important to understand the historical context. About 400 years after the birth of Jesus Christ and as the Roman Empire was shrinking, the Romans retreated from the British Isles. This power vacuum was quickly filled by various Germanic tribes, notably the Jutes, Angles, and Saxons.
The Jutes came from the Danish Jutland Peninsula, the Angles from Northern Germany near the present-day border of Germany and Holland, and the Saxons from central Germany. These groups continued to settle and influence the English language and geography, shaping the regions that we know today as England. The settlement patterns of the Angles, in particular, played a significant role in the formation of England.
The Scandinavian Influence and the Danelaw
It is also worth noting that successive waves of Vikings, Scandinavians, and Northmen settled along the east coast of the British Isles until the ninth century, leaving a lasting impact on the region. This coastal expanse became known as the Danelaw, highlighting the significant contribution of these Scandinavian tribes.
Furthermore, around the same period, several waves of Northmen, including figures such as Rollo the Viking, settled along the French west coast, leading to the eventual Norman conquest of England in 1066 by William the Conqueror, who was born in the Normandy town of Caen.
In conclusion, the naming of England is deeply-rooted in the migration and settlement patterns of the Angles and other Germanic tribes. The evolution from 'Angland' to 'England' is a testament to the rich history and linguistic tapestry of this land. The names of regions such as Sussex, Middlesex, and Essex continue to reflect these historical origins, making England a unique blend of Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian influences.