A Student's History of England, v. 1: B.C. 55-A.D. 1509: From the Earliest Times to the Death of King Edward VII

"A Student's History of England, v. 1: B.C. 55-A.D. 1509" by Samuel Rawson Gardiner is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work covers England's history from prehistoric times up to the death of King Edward VII, focusing particularly on the early periods of British history such as the Roman invasion and the rise of early English settlements. It is designed for students with an elementary knowledge of English history, aiming to provide a clear and focused narrative without overwhelming detail. The opening of the book introduces a chronological overview of prehistoric and Roman Britain, detailing the evolution of human inhabitants from early Paleolithic tribes to the more advanced Neolithic peoples. It highlights the life and culture of these ancient communities, including their struggles for survival, social structures, and religious practices. The text discusses various invasions, such as Julius Caesar's initial contact with Britain in 55 B.C., emphasizing the challenges faced by the Britons in response to these foreign incursions. Overall, the beginning establishes a framework for understanding the transformative impact of these early events on the subsequent course of English history.