subject: Guernsey A Potted History [print this page] Guernsey's history is vast, going back to 8,000 BC. The 4500BC Les Fouillages burial site, created by Neolithic man and found in Guernsey, is possibly Europe's oldest man made structure.
The islands were part of France, from 933AD. Then, in around 1200, Guernsey took King John of England's side when Normandy was lost to Phillippe Augustus of France.
Castle Cornet - a famous Guernsey landmark
Castle Cornet was built around 1200 in order to try and stop the French invading Guernsey. Today, despite the fact it doesn't look enormous from the outside, it features some of Guernsey's most historical museums. It also hosts outdoor concerts in the summer.
Guernsey enjoyed very solid history of fishing and shipbuilding. Being situated in the channel also means Guernsey has always been a vital place for merchants.
Guernsey's fishing history
Fishing was the mainstay of Guernsey's economy in the Middle Ages. Fish were caught, salted or dried in Guernsey and shipped throughout Europe. The same fishing boats returned to Guernsey, laden with many delicacies including good wine.
The end of the nineteenth century saw the Guernsey's fishing industry overtaken by mainland fleets, mainly due to their more advanced technology. Guernsey struggled to compete with the technology of steam powered English boats and many fisherman turned away from fishing, to quarrying and horticulture.
Guernsey's most famous figure
During the 1800s, Guernsey was Victor Hugo's home - the famous French poet. His house is a stunning memorial to his 15-years on the Island, from 1856 until 1870. His house is still open to the public during summer and it is hugely popular with tourists.
The Second World War had a huge impact on Guernsey
During the Second World War, Guernsey was occupied by the Germans. The occupation is widely documented and remnants can still be seen in Guernsey's many fortifications, fascinating museums and the German Underground Hospital - all vividly recreate what life would have been like during the war.
The war became a defining part of Guernsey's history. Half of the island's population was evacuated, which had a massive impact on Guernsey's traditions, population and language. Following liberation, in May 1945, some evacuees decided to remain in the UK, while others brought back new families.
Guernsey in the millennium
Guernsey is now a bustling and industrious island, with its own currency and government.
The island has a plethora of shops, restaurants, bars, hotels, adventures and stunning walks that draw people from all over the world.
The island is also a finance hub, with many offshore banks and trusts based in the island.
The population of Guernsey is now over 65,000, made up of locals and residents from around the world, all of whom have fallen in love with Guernsey and decided to make this beautiful British Isle their home.
