1. Craftsmanship and technology: Pre-Conquest England was known for its skilled craftsmanship, particularly in metalworking, jewellery making, and pottery. The Anglo-Saxons produced intricate gold and silver artefacts, such as the Sutton Hoo Ship Burial treasures. They also had advanced metallurgical skills, allowing them to produce weapons, tools, and armour of high quality.
2. Agriculture and trade: England had a well-established agricultural system, with a range of crops cultivated, including wheat, barley, oats, and rye. The use of ploughs and other farming implements allowed for efficient cultivation, and there is evidence of extensive trade both within England and with neighbouring regions.
3. Military organisation: The Anglo-Saxon kingdoms had effective military organisations, consisting of professional armies and well-trained militia forces. They used a variety of weapons, including swords, spears, and shields, and employed tactics such as the famous shield wall formation.
4. Legal systems and governance: Pre-Conquest England had a system of laws and courts, with legal codes such as the Laws of Aethelberht and the Laws of Alfred laying out punishments for various offences. The Anglo-Saxons also developed systems of governance and administration, including the Witenagemot, an assembly of nobles and churchmen that advised the king.
5. Cultural achievements: Pre-Conquest England had a rich cultural heritage, including literature, music, and art. The Anglo-Saxons were skilled poets and produced a significant body of literature, including the epic poem Beowulf. They also had a tradition of manuscript illumination and produced decorated manuscripts such as the Lindisfarne Gospels and the Book of Kells.
Overall, while pre-Conquest England may not have been as advanced as some contemporary civilisations, it exhibited many characteristics of a civilised society, including a developed economy, technology, legal systems, and cultural achievements.