British History
This topic covers the history of Britain from prehistoric times through to the early modern period. You need to know key dates, monarchs, events, and their significance for the development of British society and government.
What the test expects you to know
British History is the largest and most challenging topic. Questions often focus on specific dates (1066, 1215, 1348, 1485, 1588, 1649), key monarchs and their significance, and major turning points like the Norman Conquest, the Magna Carta, and the Civil War.
Stone Age to the Romans
- Stonehenge built around 3000 BC
- Romans invaded in 43 AD under Emperor Claudius
- Romans built roads, towns, and Hadrian's Wall
- Romans left Britain in around 410 AD
Anglo-Saxons and Vikings
- Anglo-Saxons arrived after the Romans left
- King Alfred the Great defended England from Viking invasion
- Vikings settled in parts of northern and eastern England (the Danelaw)
- Canute (Cnut) became King of England in 1016
The Norman Conquest
- William the Conqueror defeated King Harold at the Battle of Hastings in 1066
- The Domesday Book was commissioned by William I in 1086
- Norman rule introduced French language and culture to England
- Tower of London construction began under William I
Medieval England
- Magna Carta signed in 1215 by King John
- The Black Death (bubonic plague) arrived in 1348 and killed about one-third of the population
- The Wars of the Roses were civil wars between the Houses of York and Lancaster
- Henry VII became the first Tudor king in 1485
The Tudors (1485–1603)
- Henry VIII broke from the Roman Catholic Church and established the Church of England
- Henry VIII had six wives
- The Spanish Armada was defeated in 1588 under Queen Elizabeth I
- William Shakespeare lived and wrote during the Elizabethan era
The Stuarts and Civil War
- James I was the first Stuart king of England (1603)
- The English Civil War was fought between Royalists (Cavaliers) and Parliamentarians (Roundheads)
- Charles I was executed in 1649
- Oliver Cromwell ruled as Lord Protector from 1653
- The monarchy was restored in 1660 under Charles II
Common exam questions on this topic
What happened at the Battle of Hastings?
In 1066, William the Conqueror defeated King Harold II. This began the Norman Conquest of England.
When did the Black Death reach Britain?
1348. It was a bubonic plague that killed around one-third of the population of England.
Why did Henry VIII break from the Catholic Church?
Henry VIII wanted to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon. When the Pope refused, Henry established the Church of England with himself as its head.
What was the Domesday Book?
A survey of England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086, recording land ownership and resources for taxation purposes.
Practise British History questions
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