The History behind the City of Dover

The History behind the City of Dover

 

The city of Dover has a long standing history with pre-historic settlements to a currently running history with a vibrant tourist hub which is visited by many people annually. The scenic beauty along with the historical backdrop makes this city a renowned one. Notable architecture and remnants from history make this city a famous spot for visiting. The White Cliffs of Dover, covering the city limits, holds evidence of an era even prior to it been inhabited by people where these pre-historic remains show evidence of fossils and it is being explored for fossil remains.

Once the city became inhabited by individuals, the early settlements were evidence of the Stone Age, the Bronze Age and the Iron Age. During this era, the early settlers used stone flints and tools to carry on with their daily life. The inhabitants lived a simple life and were mostly based on corn agriculture. However, from the Stone Age, the people moved into the Bronze Age where better tools were used which helped with hunting and the daily lifestyle. Further, during the Iron Age, stronger tools and equipment were being used.

When the Romans conquered, the Classis Britannica came into being and remains from the Roman times are visible to even this day. The light house built during the Roman period is present even to this day and is the tallest Roman structure. Apart from this forts which were built and the military base serve as evidence of the past Roman era.

From the fifth century onwards, the city was under the Saxons and the town came to be known as DOFRAS, which became a major settlement in the Kingdom of Kent. The Saxons were warriors who ruled the area and following the Normal invasions the city fell to the Normans and they occupied the city in 1066 under the Norman Conquest.

Next during the medieval times, the city grew with castles and ports. It had Cinque Ports and medieval times were subject to renaissance. The next stage was when the Tudors ruled and the Elizabethan era when Elizabeth 1 and Henry VIII ruled. The city was linked to the monarchy.

In the modern era the city grew in defences and Dover was considered a seaside port and resort. It was used as a military base during the World War I and 2. The recent history shows the city as a tourist hub where there are many visitors coming and leaving the city, to view the historical importance and the natural beauty.