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| Jersey History |
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Jersey has been inhabited for many thousands of years, as can be seen from the neolithic tomb at La Houge Bie. The Normans made the greatest impact on the Channel Islands, annexing them to the Duchy of Normandy in the 10th century. When William of Normandy gained the English crown during 1066, the Channel Islands became part of the Anglo-Norman realm and retained after the loss of Normandy in 1204. As a mark of his gratitude for their loyalty, King John granted Jersey its own constitution and this has been ratified by every successive monarch and the connection between the island and the English throne is expressed in the flag, which contains a crest surmounted by the Plantagenet crown.
Jersey has at various times been a haven for smugglers and pirates, and is also vulnerable to attack due to its proximity to France, so often Britain’s enemy in the past.
The islanders fought off French invasions on many occasions, particularly during the 14th and 15th centuries. One of the most serious threats was led by the Baron de Rullecourt, was repelled during 1781. The Channel Islands were occupied by the Germans during World War II.
The mixture of languages – English, French and Norman-French – reflects the history of the island. Jersey has jealously guarded its independence since the war, manifested in strict criteria governing rights of residency and a marked reluctance to accept controls over its thriving financial services industry.
Recently, however, under pressure from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, the Jersey authorities have been forced to cede some controls over the industry (see business). The island’s antique political system has also come under scrutiny. Public consultation began in November 2003 and is intended to produce a more democratic system, including a blueprint for a wider franchise and a wholly elected government by the time of the next general election in the autumn of 2005. |
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