Angels, Saxons, and Jutes: The Origins of the English People

Have you ever wondered why the English are called Angles, Saxons, and Jutes? Are these terms related to the people of Angeln, Saxony, and Jutland, respectively? This article delves into the historical context and linguistic origins of these fascinating names, providing a comprehensive understanding of their significance.

Origins of Angle

The word "Angle" is derived from the Latin form of "Engle," a term used by the Germanic tribes who invaded Roman Britain to refer to themselves. These tribes emerged from their home country, Angeln, located in what is now Northern Germany. Angeln has long been recognized as the ancestral homeland of the Angles, who played a crucial role in the settlement of early England.

Origins of Saxon

Similarly, "Saxon" is a term adopted from the Romans, who used it to describe specific Germanic invaders. The term was later adopted by the Roman-Britons and persists in the Celtic languages spoken in the British Isles today, where it is used to denote the English people. These Saxon tribes came from the region known as Saxony, which is located in the north-central part of modern Germany.

Origins of Jute

Jute is a term that was invented by the renowned scholar, Bede, in his work "Ecclesiastical History of the English People." Bede is credited with the theory that the Germanic settlers in Britain were divided into three main tribes: Angles, Saxons, and Jutes. It's important to note that these settlers did not refer to themselves as "Saxons" or "Jutes" before they adopted Christianity, at which point they also learned Latin and used the Latin names for themselves.

The Roman Influence and Migration

When the Romans expanded northward into what is now called Britannia, they pushed the original British Celtic tribes to the north and west. The Celts who were pushed to Wales and Cornwall established a relatively peaceful relationship with the part of Britannia that remained Romanized. However, in the north, the Celtic threats necessitated the construction of defensive structures like Hadrian's Wall and later Antonine's Wall. Following the decline of Roman support for Britannia, several Germanic tribes, including the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes, stepped in as mercenaries. Eventually, these tribes settled in Britannia, leading to the establishment of Old English, a mix of dialects including Saxon.

The Role of Frisians and Danish Influence

The Frisians were also involved in these early settlements, although they are not as prominently remembered in historical literature. Following the arrival of the Norse, a significant portion of Britain was taken over, and the Danelaw was established, bringing an Old Norse linguistic influence. Over the centuries, further linguistic influences, including French, shaped the English language, leading to the evolution of Old English into Modern English.

In conclusion, the names "Angles," "Saxons," and "Jutes" are deeply rooted in history and reflect the origins and migratory patterns of the Germanic tribes that settled in Britain. Understanding these origins helps us appreciate the linguistic and cultural heritage that defines the English people today.