The Early History of Belgium: From Prehistoric Times to the Roman Conquest
The territory that is now modern-day Belgium has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with archaeological evidence showing human presence dating back to the Paleolithic Era. The region was later inhabited by various Celtic and Germanic tribes, including the Menapii and the Belgae, from whom the country gets its name.
The Romans conquered the region in the 1st century BC, incorporating it into the Roman Empire as the province of Belgica. During this period, the region was an important center for trade and commerce, with the Roman city of Tournai becoming a major hub for the production of textiles and pottery.
The Conversion to Christianity and the Early Middle Ages
With the decline of the Roman Empire, the region was invaded by various Germanic tribes, including the Franks, who established the Merovingian dynasty in the 5th century. It was during this period that Christianity was introduced to the region, with Saint Servatius and Saint Hadelin playing important roles in the conversion process.
The Merovingian dynasty was eventually replaced by the Carolingian dynasty, with Charlemagne ruling the region in the 8th and 9th centuries. During this period, the region experienced significant economic and cultural growth, with the establishment of monasteries and the development of a thriving agricultural industry.