Introduction
Normandy is a geographical region in the north of France which lies along the English Channel. Part of the region is under British control, but the predominant section belongs to France. Normandy is mainly an agricultural, most known for cider, dairy and flax.
History
Humans have been present in Normandy dating back to prehistoric times, but most people begin the areas history with the Celtic invasion in 4th century BC. Rome came to Normandy soon after and built infrastructure and villas.
In the 3rd century, barbarian raids and saxon pirates devastated the land and Rome eventually gave it up. Normandy was adopted by the Vikings. In 1066, William, Duke of Normandy and descendent of the Viking King, became the King of England and brought the territory under English control.
In 1204, Normandy was taken by France and fighting remained in the area for a long time as both superpowers vied for control. Normandy constantly changed control until the 18th century when it securely entered French control.
Normandy did not really enter the world scene again until World War II , when British and American troops landed on the shores in the battle of D-Day, June 6, 1944. The was the turning point of the war, and the beginning of the end for Germany.
Main Towns
Rouen
Caen
Le Havre
Cherbourg
Attractions
Home of Claude Monet
Mont Saint-Michel
Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial
Personal Stories
What My Grandpa Lived Through