The Anglo-Saxons: a history of the beginnings of England

When the Romans left Britain around 410, raiders from other parts of Europe took their place. From 449 the Angles and Saxons began to arrive and and many made Britain their home. Over time the people living in many parts of England were later known as the Anglo-Saxons living with and often fighting against the Britons. From 789 the Vikings began their raid on parts of the English coast and settled in some areas. 

At this time, England was divided into different regions and with a new enemy there were many battles to defend land from the newcomers. In 937 Athelstan and his army defeated Vikings and Scottish armies at the Battle of Brunanbruh and he is generally referred to as the first King of a united England. There were many changes of power until the Norman Conquest in 1066. [British History Timeline - Angle-Saxons and Vikings]

In The Anglo-Saxons: a history of the beginnings of England Marc Morris has written a comprehensive account of this turbulent period of British history. The author examines how England became a Christian country plus the recreation of towns, and the establishment of shires and boroughs. We learn about some of the leaders at the time including King Offa, Alfred the Great, Aethelstan and Aetheled the Unready as well as many of the religious leaders and queens. The story can only be told from the available resources and many of the records have been lost.

The book has extensive notes and bibliography plus index as well as many illustrations (colour and black and white) and maps.