- Danes formed the Danelaw, the part of England that they controlled, which was in parts divided into fiefs. This feudal system of government in which land and power were granted in return for military service and political loyalty, influenced the Anglo-Saxon system and laid the foundation for the more centralized and powerful monarchy of the Norman period.
- Establishment of the Shires: The Danes redivided the country into smaller administrative units called shires. This system, called the Shire System, was later followed by the Normans.
- Increased Royal Authority: To effectively control the Danes, the Anglo-Saxon kings strengthened their authority and centralized power. This, in turn, influenced the development of a more absolute monarchy in England.
Cultural and Social Changes
- Danish Customs: The Danes brought their customs and traditions, such as the use of the communal hall, known as the 'Thing' and the practice of trial by ordeal. These influenced Anglo-Saxon culture and way of life.
- Intermarriage and Integration: Intermarriage between the Anglo-Saxon and the Danes gradually led to the integration of the two populations, resulting in the formation of a blended culture and society.
- Influence of the Danelaw: The Danelaw experienced significant economic and cultural development during this period, becoming an important region for trade, commerce, and urbanization. These factors left a lasting impact on the social and economic fabric of England.
- The English Language: The Danelaw influenced the English language, with the borrowing of words from Old Norse origin, such as 'sky', 'window', and 'husband', enriching the English vocabulary.
- Urbanization: The Danes established new towns and revitalized existing ones in the Danelaw, contributing to the growth of urbanization and economic activity.
- Trade and Economy: The Danes introduced new trading routes and commercial practices, enhancing trade and economic opportunities within the Danelaw and the rest of England.
In summary, the Danish invasions brought significant changes to the English political, cultural, linguistic, and socio-economic landscape, transforming it from a loosely organized Anglo-Saxon kingdom to a more unified and structured society, laying the groundwork for the future development of England.
