Germans/History
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Not much is known about the early Germanic peoples due to the lack of a written language. Most of what is known is due to contact with the Roman Empire and archaeological digs. The first distinct Germanic tribes emerged around 100 BC in northern Germany, and are usually thought to have migrated south from Scandinavia. From there, the tribes continued to expand, coming in contact with the Celts of Gaul in the west, and Slavic tribes to the east. We do not know exactly what caused this migration, but recent studies into archaeoecology - drawing upon archaeological discoveries outside of northern Europe and the study of ice cores sampled from the North Pole - suggest that climate change - either drought, or extreme cold - forced the German peoples to migrate southwards.
Bronze Age Germany[edit | edit source]
The period from 1900BCE to 500BCE in the history of Germany and Northern Europe was characterized by significant developments in various aspects such as culture, society, and politics. While thus far, most of what we know of this period is based on excavated artefacts and not literary sources, much has been discovered over the past two centuries prior to our time to allow for a reconstruction of the lifestyles of the people who inhabited Germany and Northern Europe over these 14 centuries.
During the Bronze Age, which lasted from around 1900 BC to 750 BC, Germany and Northern Europe saw advancements in metallurgy, trade networks, and cultural interactions. The emergence of bronze as a key material for tools and weapons revolutionized societies in the region. In Central Europe, the Unetice culture (2300-1600BCE) flourished, known for its distinctive burials and metalwork. This period also saw the rise of the Nordic Bronze Age (1700-500 BC), characterized by rich grave goods and elaborate metalwork. The Urnfield culture (1300-750BCE) succeeded the Unetice culture and is known for its cremation burials.
The Bronze Age was also marked by intense long-distance trade, exchanging goods and ideas across vast distances. Artefacts found at archaeological sites reflect this cultural diversity and highlight the interconnected nature of societies in Germany and Northern Europe. Emblematic of this was amber, a form of petrified prehistoric sap that can still be found in the Baltic region. This amber was highly prized and traded extensively throughout Europe and farther east and south, with finds of Baltic amber found as far south as the city of Qatna in what is today the Syrian Arab Republic. The routes this trade took place has been called by historians the "Amber Road", and it facilitated trade between Northern Europe and Mediterranean civilizations.
Into the Iron Age: Celtic Influence in Germany[edit | edit source]
The transition from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age marked a significant shift in technology and societal structures. Ironworking became more prevalent during this period, leading to advancements in agriculture, warfare, and craftsmanship. During this time frame, Celtic tribes began to expand their influence across parts of Germany and Northern Europe. The Celts introduced new agricultural techniques, artistic styles, and religious practices to the region. Their intricate metalwork and skilled craftsmanship left a lasting impact on local cultures.
In Northern Europe, the Hallstatt culture (800-450BCE) played a crucial role in shaping regional developments. Known for its iron production and trade networks, the Hallstatt culture was instrumental in connecting different communities across Central Europe.
The Great Migrations[edit | edit source]
The Roman Empire had plans to expand its borders into the wild lands of Germania, but with their defeat at the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, a decision was made by the Roman Emperor Augustus to consolidate the boundaries along the Rhine River, leaving most of Germania free, wild, and untamed. Migrating pressures over the following centuries saw frequent efforts of Germanic tribes trying to enter the Roman Empire. While sometimes these efforts gained temporary success, Rome would invariably defeat these efforts. Some tribes were allowed to settle in the Empire, especially during times of depopulation during plague. During the time of the later Empire, the Germans were both buffers against outside invasions and oftentimes allies, enemies, or both - with some tribes aiding Rome and some tribes invading. In 410 AD, some Germanic tribes assisted the Visigoths under Alaric I in sacking the city of Rome.[2] It was a blow to the Western Empire, but didn't have the importance that it once would have as the capital had moved to Ravenna in 402 AD. But in 476 AD, dissatisfied German mercenaries led by Odoacer captured Ravenna and deposed Emperor Romulus Augustulus. By that time Rome was being attacked or saved almost exclusively by barbarian armies. Since Odoacer refused to assume the title of Emperor, this date is generally considered to be the official end of the Western Roman Empire.[3]
unetice[edit | edit source]
The Unetice culture (circa 2300–1600 BCE) and the Germanic peoples of Classical Antiquity (circa 1st century BCE to 5th century CE) were separated by a significant time gap, but there are some indirect links and influences that can be traced between them:
Unetice Culture Geographical Range: The Unetice culture was centered in Central Europe, particularly in areas that are now the Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, and Slovakia12. Characteristics: This culture is known for its early use of bronze, sophisticated metalwork, and burial practices. The famous Nebra Sky Disk, an early astronomical instrument, is one of the notable artifacts from this culture12. Germanic Peoples Origins and Expansion: The Germanic peoples originated in Northern Europe and began expanding southward during the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age. By the time of Classical Antiquity, they had spread across much of Central and Western Europe3. Cultural Development: The Germanic tribes developed distinct languages, social structures, and cultural practices. They interacted with the Roman Empire and other neighboring cultures, influencing and being influenced by them3. Links and Influences Cultural Continuity: The Unetice culture laid the groundwork for subsequent Bronze Age cultures in Central Europe, such as the Tumulus and Urnfield cultures. These cultures, in turn, influenced the early Iron Age cultures, including the Hallstatt and La Tène cultures, which are considered precursors to the Germanic tribes12. Technological Transmission: The advancements in metallurgy and craftsmanship developed by the Unetice culture were passed down through successive cultures. The Germanic peoples inherited and further developed these technologies, which played a crucial role in their societal development12. Archaeological Evidence: Artifacts and burial practices from the Unetice culture show a continuity of cultural elements that can be traced through the Bronze Age into the early Iron Age. This continuity suggests that the Germanic tribes, emerging later, were influenced by these earlier cultures12. While the Unetice culture and the Germanic peoples were not directly connected, the cultural and technological developments of the Unetice culture contributed to the broader cultural landscape of Central Europe, which eventually influenced the Germanic tribes.