A Concise History of England
By Michael E J Wood and published by the Bruges Group
This meticulously researched book examines English history from the people's perspective.
A society that had no organised religion developed laws and a legal system that still hold good two millennia later. We can thank Angles, Saxons, Jutes and Frisians for jury trial and bail, They developed a system that was pragmatic and dependent on common sense. It was s society of democratic folk moots and one where women had equal rights.
Despite the appearance of Christianity in the 7th century, the old laws, and systems survived. By a miracle, they still do. A testament to their value.
England changed in 1066 when a 'Crusade' led by William of Normandy and blessed by the Pope brought freedom to an end.
Henry 1 married Ethel a descendent of Alfred the great who had been forced to change her name to Matilda. He spoke English and nominated his daughter to follow him on the throne. Henry had ruled in accordance with Anglo Saxon law and Custom. Nominating Matilda would have been considered normal to Anglo Saxons. The idea of a woman ruler, outraged the elite and church. On Henry's death they renounced their oaths to Matilda and England was embroiled in a civil war.
It is much remarked that the English language survived the conquest. As important is the 'English' essence of fair play common sense and decency. Visitors are often astonished at the politeness of people in Britain. An understanding of Anglo Saxon society and its focus on peaceful cooperation is the explanation and a testament to the long lived nature of the English essence and its contribution to the world
Women lost their rights and did not fully recover them until 1928. Men, other than the elite, suffered the same fate. The Brexit Referendum was the first genuine Folk Moot since 1066. The elite refusal to recognise democracy and the grudging limited withdrawal from the EU demonstrates there is more to be done, before the rights enjoyed pre-1066 can return.
Parliament, Privilege and the People follows history from the arrival of Hengist and Horsa to the post Referendum world. It Relies on eye witness accounts of events and people. The book is fascinating both for its depth and accessibility.
Whether you voted Leave or Remain, is irrelevant. If you value democracy and its development you should read this book. It has an engrossing style and will leave readers wondering why so much has not been explained before.
Available as a Paperback and a Kindle edition from Amazon, Waterstones, and all good Book shops. In the USA it is available from Barnes and Noble.
The book will be published on 15 June and can be pre-ordered Here
