The society of the Germanic peoples

In contrast to the Romans, the Germans did not form a universal empire. Which tribes exactly belonged to the Germans and which to neighboring peoples such as the Gauls or Celts is a subject of debate. Germans did not call themselves German, but by their tribe. Julius Caesar wrote that the Germans lived in Germania, which stretched from east to west between the Vistula and the Rhine and from north to south from southern Scandinavia to the Danube. However, this is very simplistic and overlooks the majority of the North Germans in Scandinavia. From a linguistic perspective, the Germans were tribes that collectively spoke Germanic languages. Scholars agree that starting from the 5th century BC, we can talk about Germanic-speaking peoples. Archaeologists associate the early Germanic peoples with the Jastorf culture, which existed in Denmark and northern Germany between the 6th and 1st century BC. The Germanic tribes migrated towards the east, south, and west and came into contact with the Celts, Balts, and Slavs. 

Our knowledge about the Germans in this period largely comes from their enemies, the Romans. As a result, the image is heavily distorted by propaganda and personal agendass instead of objective observations. Other sources through which we can study the Germans are linguistic research and archaeology. 

Trigger warning: contains nudity

Linguistic reconstructions can draw comparisons between the different Germanic languages and are compared with other Indo-European languages such as Celtic and Baltic. This enables linguists to retroject certain terms to the Proto-Germanic period, even though they are only attested in one Germanic language; for example, *saidaz ('magic') is only attested in Old Norse as seiðr, but has parallels in Proto-Celtic *soytos and Lithuanian saitas.

Tacitus' work "Germania" is a valuable source of information about Germanic society. He provides a detailed description of the Germanic tribes and their way of life. Although Tacitus was not an eyewitness to Germanic culture, he based his work on various sources, including oral tradition, observations of Roman soldiers, and possibly even earlier writings about the Germans that are now lost.

Tacitus and Caesar were Roman aristocrats writing from a Roman perspective. Therefore, their works may be influenced by biases and political agendas, such as emphasizing the superiority of Roman culture.

Tacitus and Caesar had limited direct knowledge of Germanic culture and often relied on secondary sources and rumors. This means that their descriptions may not be entirely accurate or representative of the diversity of Germanic society.

Many stories from Germanic and Celtic mythology center on individual achievement. In Germanic society, individual achievement referred to accomplishments for the benefit of the tribe. A person's status likely depended heavily on the individual achievement he or she accomplished. Individual achievement within Germanic culture was closely linked to the community and the tribe. Individuals were recognized and valued within the context of their contribution to the community and the collective well-being. But especially the contribution to the larger social structure and the survival of the tribe.

Examples of how this is woven into mythological stories are:

Courage and bravery: An individual was valued for his courage and bravery in battle. Demonstrating courage, achieving victories, and protecting the community were important aspects of individual achievements.

Honor and fame: Acquiring honor and fame was an essential part of individual achievements. Achieving heroic deeds, defending the tribe, and acquiring a good reputation were ways in which individuals could enhance their honor.

Skills and craftsmanship: Possessing skills and craftsmanship was valued within the Germanic culture. Individuals who excelled in crafts such as blacksmithing, weaving, woodworking, or hunting were admired and respected.

Leadership and responsibility: Individuals who demonstrated leadership qualities and took on the responsibility to lead and protect others were high esteemed. Good leadership traits, such as wisdom, justice, and the ability to inspire others, were appreciated.

Wisdom and knowledge: Acquiring wisdom and knowledge was important in Germanic culture. Individuals who were intellectually capable, able to remember stories and mythologies, and who could provide good advice were valued.

There are also examples in Germanic stories where individual achievements were not in the interest of the tribe. Pursuing individual status without regard for the tribe's interest or sometimes even at the expense of the tribe was seen as malevolent. Examples include: Loki is known for his selfish deeds and pursuit of personal gain, even at the expense of others or the tribe. He is involved in various negative events, such as deceiving the other gods, sabotaging their plans, and causing conflicts. His motives are usually focused on satisfying his own desires and seeking personal advantage, even if this is harmful to others.

Another example is the figure of Grendel in the Old English epic poem Beowulf. Grendel is a monster that attacks and kills the people of Hrothgar's kingdom. His actions are primarily inspired by his own resentment and envy, without any regard for the tribe's welfare. He is considered a symbol of evil and destruction.

Within the Germanic tribes, there was a clear class difference. In Indo-European and later Germanic graves, it can be seen that one individual receives more objects for the afterlife than another. This indicates a clear class difference. The philosophy that everyone is equal was probably only implemented with Christianity. The status of a person was largely related to the achievements one made for the tribe. The function of kingship, nobility, and warrior classes should largely be approached from this perspective. If kings and aristocrats did not perform sufficiently, they were probably deposed without mercy. The Salic Law distinguished between free and unfree people. Probably, the Germanic classes, like the Indo-European classes, were divided into the fighting, religious, and working classes.

Freemen were protected by the law and had certain rights and responsibilities (legal personality). Unfree people were often bound to their lord and had fewer legal rights.

From the Germanic and 'Viking' Laws, we can deduce that there was a significant class difference within the tribe. Although it is possible that these laws were inspired by each other and small parts of them were derived from Christian and Roman legislation, scientists still assert that these Germanic laws provide a fairly pure insight into Germanic society. 

The Salic Law, the Frostathing Law, the Gulathingslov, the Lex Alamannorum, and the Lex Baiuvariorum unanimously distinguish between different classes in society. They also all make a distinction between free and unfree men. All five of these laws address matters such as inheritance, wergeld, and fines. The higher the status of the victim, the higher the fine. Also, the wergeld that a perpetrator had to pay to the victim or the victim's family depended on the status of the victim. 

Within Germanic society, there was often a king or prince who served as the highest authority and leader of the tribe. The king often had a special status and enjoyed privileges and respect due to his leadership. Within Germanic society, there was possibly a less strict and immutable aristocratic class as in some other societies. Leadership and positions of power were often determined on basic of personal qualities, achievements, and the support of the community.

Within Germanic society, there were mechanisms to depose leaders if they were no longer deemed acceptable or if they abused their power.

In general, the position of power and leadership within Germanic society was determined by the trust and support of the community, and not by a rigid aristocratic structure in which rulers were untouchable.

Some examples of this are:

King Witigis of the Ostrogoths: In the 6th century, King Witigis was deposed by his own military leaders. They were dissatisfied with his leadership during the war against the Byzantine Empire and decided to depose him and choose a new king.

King Æthelwald Moll of Northumbria: In the 8th century, Æthelwald Moll, a king of Northumbria, was deposed by his cousin Eadberht. Eadberht felt that Æthelwald was unable to rule effectively and took over power.

King Harald Gormsson of Denmark: In the 10th century, King Harald Gormsson, also known as Harald Bluetooth, was deposed by his son Sweyn Forkbeard. Sweyn felt that his father was too lenient towards Christian missionaries and took over the throne.

King Sigurd Eysteinsson of Norway: In the 9th century, King Sigurd Eysteinsson of Norway was deposed by his brother Halfdan. Halfdan wanted the throne for himself and expelled Sigurd from the kingdom.

Nobility and warrior class: There was a distinction between the nobility and the warrior class, who usually formed the elite within society. These groups could enjoy prestige and privileges based on basic their lineage, martial skills, and social status. 

Free men (military classes): In Germanic society, there were free men who were independent and self-reliant, possessing their own property and land. They had certain rights and obligations within the community. They were expected to defend their tribe and fight under the leadership of a king or warlord. Through their military skills and achievements, free men could rise in prestige and status within society.

However, not all free men automatically belonged to the warrior class. The warrior class consisted of those who actively engaged in warfare and had a certain degree of skill and experience. Not all free men chose to become warriors; some focused on other professions such as agriculture, crafts, or trade.

Thus, while free men could be part of the warrior class, it was not the only role they could fulfill within Germanic society. They also had other responsibilities and occupations, depending on their individual abilities and lineage.

Free farmers and craftsmen (working class): In addition to the free men, there were also free farmers and craftsmen who played an important role in the economy of society. They cultivated the land or practiced a craft and had a certain degree of freedom and autonomy.

Slaves and serfs (unfree working classes): Although the use of slavery in Germanic society was less widespread than in other ancient societies, there were instances where slaves or serfs were held. These individuals had a lower status and were often owned by the nobility or free men.

Tacitus also describes the importance of military leaders within the Germanic political structure. He notes that the Germanic kings and leaders were not only political figures but also military commanders. Achieving success in battle was a significant factor in gaining respect and influence within the community.

The role of the warrior class involved several aspects. Firstly, leadership and military expertise. Thus, the tribe could maintain its land and agricultural grounds, otherwise it would perish. Tribal wars were continuous, and many tribes had political conflicts that could date back hundreds of years. Conflicts between tribes must also be attributed an almost mythological role. Often in the form of cattle raids, the "enemy" tribe was impoverished and the victorious tribe enriched. Cattle raids demanded the utmost from small groups of warriors who had to reach the enemy unseen and steal cattle. Probably, this was often protected by groups of warriors from the tribe to which it belonged. 

Ultimately, the most important role of the warrior class was to protect the tribe against external threats. There is no direct evidence that the warrior class also played a role in judiciary and enforcement. Although this is suspected. It is important to remember that the warrior class were not full-time soldiers but mostly practiced agricultural professions. It was more so that in case of conflict a call could be made to the warrior class or that they themselves undertook expeditions. 

Tacitus describes the political structure of the Germanic tribes as decentralized and characterized by royal authority. The kings and leaders, known as "reges" and "principes", were chosen based on basic of their merits and courage in battle. Tacitus emphasizes that the Germanic tribes had a strong aversion to monarchy and that kings mainly exercised authority by earning the loyalty and support of their tribesmen.

Germanic tribes had alliances and could even merge. In the latter case, the tribe often ceased to exist in its old form. It is important to note that tribes often consisted of multiple groups living in a broader area. Undoubtedly, tribes could also split from each other because of this. The many mergers and splits among the Germanic tribes are the reason why names like the Franks, Saxes, Alamanni, etc., were not mentioned during the times of Tacitus and Caesar. 

Marcomanni and Quadi: In the 1st century AD, the Marcomanni and the Quadi, two Germanic tribes originally residing in Central Europe, merged. They formed an alliance to protect their common interests and resist Roman influence in the region.

Vandals and Silingi: In the 5th century, the Vandals, a Germanic tribe from Scandinavia, formed an alliance with the Silingi, another Germanic tribe from Eastern Europe. Together, they migrated westward and first settled in Gaul before moving further to North Africa, where they established the Vandal Kingdom.

Lombards and Saxons: In the 6th century, the Lombards, a Germanic tribe from Northern Germany, merged with the Saxons, another Germanic tribe from Northwestern Germany. They formed an alliance and migrated to the Italian peninsula, where they founded the Lombard Kingdom.

Alemanni and Suebi: In the 3rd and 4th centuries, the Alemanni, a Germanic tribe from Southern Germany, formed an alliance with the Suebi, another Germanic tribe from Southwestern Germany. Together they moved to the Rhine area and settled in parts of Gaul and Hispania.

Frankish Confederation: The Franks were originally several different tribes in the area now known as Northwestern Germany and Northern France. In the 3rd century, these tribes began to form an alliance, known as the Frankish Confederation, under the leadership of the king of the Salian Franks. This alliance laid the basic for the emerging Frankish Empire.

Saxon Confederations: The Saxons were originally a number of Germanic tribes living in Northern Germany and the adjacent area. During the migration period, these tribes formed various confederations, such as the East Saxons, West Saxons, and English Saxons. These confederations gradually merged into the Saxons, an ethnic group that played an important role in medieval history.

Angles, Saxons, and Jutes: In the 5th and 6th centuries, various Germanic tribes migrated from the area now known as Denmark to Great Britain. Among them were the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes. Although they were separate tribes, they merged with the existing British population and formed the Anglo-Saxon culture and the Anglo-Saxon kingdom.

Tacitus describes the important role of assemblies in Germanic political decision-making. In these assemblies, important issues were discussed, and decisions were made. The kings or leaders had to gain the support and approval of the tribe members before they could take action. Probably, influence during a meeting depended on the individual and his status within the tribe. This reflected the participatory nature of Germanic politics, where the opinion and approval of the community were important. The right to vote was held by the free men (and possibly also women) of the tribe, who could cast their vote and influence decision-making. The kings or leaders needed to win the community's support and act in accordance with their will. Within the tribes, there were often smaller social groups, such as clans and families, which played an important role in the political structure.

Caesar describes the Germanic tribes as divided into smaller political units, each led by kings and nobles. He notes that the Germanic society had no central authority and that political decision-making took place in assemblies where important issues were discussed, and decisions were made.

In times of crisis, Germanic tribes could agree on a cooperative alliance or even merge (which often happened in the 4th century). A clear example of cooperation between the Germanic tribes was around the 9th century AD under Arminius, which led to the great Germanic victory at the Teutoburg Forest. 

Tacitus emphasizes the egalitarian nature of Germanic society. He describes a society where social status was not determined by birth but by merit and leadership. He mentions the importance of martial prowess and individual achievement in Germanic culture, and how these traits were valued and recognized within the community. Additionally, he describes the importance of the "comitatus" or the warrior fellowship, in which warriors voluntarily pledged themselves to a leader and swore loyalty to him.

The Germanic culture was patriarchal. We deduce this because the Indo-European society was also likely patriarchal. Germanic laws (The Salic Law, the Frostathing law, the Gulathingslov, the Lex Alamannorum, and the Lex Baiuvariorum) also reflect a patriarchal society. Within the Germanic society, there was a clear division of roles. The woman was responsible for the home, the children, for the society within the tribe. Men were responsible as breadwinners and for the protection of the tribe. The degree of patriarchy could possibly vary among different Germanic tribes and within specific periods; thus, the Salic law is seen as the most patriarchal, while the Frostathinge and the Gulathingslov offer more protection and rights to women in the event of marital conflicts. There is little evidence of the exact division of roles and the influence women had in it. It can be generally assumed that individual performance for the benefit of the tribe was more important than the division of roles between men and women. According to the theory of Janina Ramirez, aristocratic women were regularly trained to lead and perform martial actions just as men were. This resulted, for example, in women also being able to join the warrior classes or become queens. 

Women had more freedom and autonomy than, for example, in Roman and later Christian societies. And perhaps the division is more comparable to that of the Etruscans. Women owned property and conducted trade independently of their husbands. They were the heads of the household and made decisions about food supplies and clothing production. It is also unclear whether women could become craftsmen, such as blacksmiths and potters. Female leaders and queens are known within the Germanic society. Women also played a central role in Germanic religion. They were priests, seers, and healers. They had an important role in rituals and ceremonies. Female deities were prominently present and were associated with fertility, protection, and wisdom. There are some accounts of Germanic women participating in combat. This is also mentioned in various mythological stories. From later periods, Viking women's graves with weapons and armor have been found. This proves, albeit sporadically, that women participated in the warrior class. This may also indicate that women, for example, were addressed as warriors when defending the tribe. For cattle raiding and attacking other tribes, it can be suggested that this was more the role of young men who had not yet acquired status within the tribe or formed family connections. 

Some examples of female warriors within the Germanic culture are:

The Valkyries: In Norse mythology, the Valkyries are described as female divine beings tasked with selecting the fallen warriors on the battlefield and guiding them to Valhalla. They are depicted as formidable women who are both courageous and powerful.

Brynhild: Brynhild is a significant figure in Norse mythology and is often described as a female warrior and heroine. She is a Valkyrie and participates in battles and adventures. Her story is particularly known in the Völsunga saga and the Nibelungenlied.

Hervor: Hervor is a legendary figure in Norse mythology and the sagas. She is known as a brave warrior and leader. Hervor is especially known from the story in which she retrieves her father's sword from his grave and fulfills her destiny as a warrior.

Lagertha: Lagertha is a semi-mythological figure from the Viking Age and is mentioned in the sagas. She is described as a brave warrior and is said to have been the wife of the legendary Viking hero Ragnar Lodbrok.

Saxo Grammaticus described in his History of the Danes warrior women who were disguised as men and wielded weapons.

Freydís, in the Greenland saga, is manipulative and greedy. After deceiving the people she traveled with, Freydís murders five women with a axe.

The Laxdæla saga tells the story of Auðr, whose husband leaves her for another woman because she always wears men's trousers. She decides to take revenge and, dressed as a man, stabs him with a sword. The Laxdœla saga has the widest range of female characters of all the sagas and likely had an intended female audience. It is interpreted as an alternative to the disenchanted life women led given their limited role in society.

Hervör, in the Hervarar saga Ok Heiðreks is the only child of Angantyr. Early on, she shows more aptitude for weapons than traditional female tasks. She wields the family sword against her father's wishes and experiences many male adventures. Only when she decides to settle down and have children does the male line of the family get restored, allowing her to lay down the cloak of son that Angantyr never had.

Religion played a crucial role in Germanic society, with gods like Wodan, Donar, and Nerthus. Tacitus and Caesar mentioned various gods and religious practices, and although Tacitus claimed that the Germans did not make images of their gods, there are archaeological findings of Germanic votive figurines. Trees were revered and served as sacred centers connecting the different levels of the universe. Temples, worship poles, and ancient structures were also used for religious purposes. The role of religious officials, such as priests and shamans, is not fully understood. The Germanic burial culture included both cremation and inhumation, with grave goods and various types of graves, such as urn graves and row graves for the elite.

Understanding the Germanic religion and burial culture provides valuable information about the history and traditions of the Germanic peoples. Archaeological finds, such as votive figurines, temples, and graves, help us gain a better understanding of their belief system and social hierarchy.

Tacitus describes the Germanic tribes as large, blond, and blue-eyed people. He emphasizes their warlike appearance and the importance they attach to their appearance. The Germanic men are described as proud of their long, blond hair. 

Tacitus describes the clothing style of the Germanic peoples as simple but functional. He notes that they often wore tunics fastened with a belt around the body. These tunics had various colors and patterns. 

Tacitus points out the love of the Germanic peoples for jewelry and decorations. He mentions that they liked to wear gold and silver rings, bracelets, and necklaces. These pieces of jewelry served not only as decoration but also as an expression of status, wealth, and personal identity. They were considered valuable possessions passed down from generation to generation. Tacitus also emphasizes the pride and significance that Germanic women attached to wearing jewelry. He writes that these pieces of jewelry not only highlighted their beauty.

Tacitus also pays attention to the weapons and equipment of the Germanic warriors. He mentions that they were known for their skill with the sword, the spear, and the shield. The weapons were usually simple in design but functional, allowing them to fight effectively in both close combat and from a distance.

Tacitus describes the Germanic tribes as loyal to their spouses and attached to marriage. He notes that divorce is rare and that women have a significant influence within the family. He also emphasizes the importance of family ties and solidarity within the family clans.

Tacitus describes the Germanic society as agrarian, with agriculture and livestock farming as important economic activities. He emphasizes the simple lifestyle of the Germans and their disdain for luxury goods. They value freedom and self-sufficiency.

Tacitus emphasizes the martial prowess of the Germanic tribes and their skills in warfare. He describes their tactics, weapons, and the organization of their military forces. The Germans were known for their courage and determination in battle.

Norwegian texts from after the conversion to Christianity mention dedicated groups of warriors, some of whom, the berserkir (berserkers) and ulfheðnar, were associated with bears and wolves, respectively. In the Ynglinga saga, Snorri Sturluson associates these warriors with Odin. Many scholars claim that warrior bands, with their initiation rituals and organizational forms, can be traced back to the time of Tacitus, who discusses various warrior bands and societies among the Germani. These scholars further claim that these bonds can be traced back to some extent to Proto-Indo-European predecessors. Other scholars, such as Hans Kuhn, dispute continuity between Norse and earlier warrior bands. Inhumation and cremation graves with bear claws, teeth, and skins are found throughout the Germanic-speaking area, particularly common on the Elbe from 100 BC to 100 AD, and in Scandinavia from the 2nd to 5th century AD; these may be related to the warrior associations.

Caesar emphasizes the importance of the warrior class within Germanic society. He describes the Germanic warriors as brave and courageous, noting that success in battle was essential for gaining status and respect. The warriors were often the most important social group, and their achievements in war were valued and honored within the community.

Tacitus describes the Germanic tribes as practicing a form of customary law. He explains that disputes and crimes are settled by elected judges in public assemblies. The punishments range from fines to banishment and even the death penalty, depending on the severity of the crime. However, in the Germanic laws, the death penalty is rarely mentioned. 

Economy and Agriculture: Tacitus describes Germanic society as agrarian, with farming and animal husbandry being important economic activities. He emphasizes the simple lifestyle of the Germans and their disdain for luxury goods. They value freedom and self-sufficiency. (But the latter could also be pure propaganda)

The Roman boundary line, the limes, was much more than just a physical barrier. The Roman Empire established this boundary along the rivers Rhine and Danube. It was a symbol of Roman domination and their drive to expand their empire. From the Germanic perspective, the limes felt like an impenetrable wall, separating our free way of life from their organized world. Although the limes seemed to isolate the Germans, it also united the various tribes. Alliances were formed between the tribes, setting aside internal disputes. This trend began to some extent already when Arminius and the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest in 9 AD

Despite the Roman limes, trade expeditions between the Roman Empire and the Germanic tribes were constantly conducted. The Roman Empire was not hermetically sealed off from the Germans; rather, the Romans wanted to control who crossed the border so that no military movements or migrations of tribes could occur. The Romans built large cities on the limes, which also served as a market for the Germanic tribes' trade. Additionally, many Germans served as mercenaries (auxiliae) in the Roman army. Both cultures knew each other well, and the Roman Empire became increasingly influenced by Germanic contacts. 

The Great Migration refers to a period in late antiquity (4th-6th century AD) during which various Germanic and other tribes moved and caused migrations that brought about significant political, social, and cultural changes in Europe. These migrations were caused by various factors, including invasions by the Huns in Eastern Europe, internal conflicts within the Roman Empire, climate change, economic pressure, and the search for better agricultural lands and wealth. As a result, Germanic tribes began to move, seeking new areas to settle. Some prominent events during the Great Migration include:

The invasion of the Huns: The rise of the Huns under leaders like Attila caused a series of invasions in the eastern part of Europe, prompting other Germanic tribes such as the Visigoths and Ostrogoths to migrate westward.

The fall of the Western Roman Empire: The Western Roman Empire faced internal problems and invasions from various Germanic tribes, such as the Vandals, the Alans, and the Suebi. In 476 AD, the last Western Roman emperor was deposed, marking the end of the Western Roman Empire.

The migration of the Goths: The Goths, consisting of the Visigoths and Ostrogoths, migrated from Eastern Europe to the west. They settled in various parts of the Roman Empire and played a crucial role in the fall of the Western Roman Empire.

The Vandals in North Africa: The Vandals, originally an East Germanic tribe, traveled through Europe and eventually settled in North Africa. They established their own kingdom and threatened the maritime trade of the Roman Empire.

The migration of the Franks: The Franks, under the leadership of King Clovis, migrated from their original territory in present-day Germany to Gaul (modern-day France). They established the Frankish Kingdom and would later play a significant role in the history of Western Europe.

The Great Migration had enormous consequences for Europe. It led to political instability, the collapse of the Western Roman Empire, and the rise of new kingdoms and states. 

In the aftermath of the Great Migration, several powerful Germanic kingdoms and states emerged that would change the course of history. One of these remarkable realms was the Frankish Kingdom, founded by the Franks under the leadership of King Clovis. The Franks were originally a Germanic tribe that expanded their territory over large parts of Gaul, present-day France. They formed a powerful political and military force, thus laying the basic for the later Holy Roman Empire.

While the Franks settled in the west, another Germanic tribe, the Visigoths, gained autonomy on the Iberian Peninsula. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Visigoths established the Visigothic Kingdom, with Toledo as their capital. This kingdom would play an important role in the medieval history of Spain for several centuries.

Meanwhile, the Ostrogoths migrated to the east of Europe, where they established the Ostrogothic Kingdom. This kingdom encompassed the Italian peninsula and had a significant influence on the politics and culture in that region. Under the rule of King Theodoric the Great, the Ostrogoths reached a period of political stability and cultural flourishing.

In the north of Italy, the Lombards settled in Lombardy, where they founded the kingdom of the same name. The Lombards were known for their powerful military culture and left a lasting legacy, including the 'Edictum Rothari', an important legal code that influenced the medieval legal system.

Meanwhile, the Anglo-Saxons settled in Great Britain after the withdrawal of the Roman armies. They formed various kingdoms, such as Wessex, Mercia, and Northumbria, which eventually merged into the Anglo-Saxon Kingdom of England. The Anglo-Saxons would play a crucial role in the formation of English culture and identity.

These Germanic tribes that became states after the great migrations contributed to the formation of medieval European society. They brought political stability, cultural development, and laid the basic for the future nations and empires that would shape the history of Europe.

At a time when the Germanic tribes still adhered to their old gods and belief systems, a shift began towards Christianity. This change arose from various events and encounters that brought the tribes into contact with the new religion.

In the 4th century, when the Roman Empire still exerted its influence over large parts of Europe, Christianity began to spread further, and missionaries traveled north to convert the Germanic tribes. One of the most notable figures was Bishop Ulfilas, a Gothic missionary known for his translation of the Bible into Gothic. It was during this time that the Franks came under the influence of Christianity. King Clovis, who played a significant role in the rise of the Frankish Empire, adopted the Christian faith after his victory at the Battle of Tolbiac. This marked the beginning of the conversion of the Franks to Christianity and the subsequent Christianization of the Frankish Empire. Often, kings converted to Christianity out of ambition to build on the ruins of the Roman Empire and for political reasons to align with other peoples. Both ambitions would be characteristic of this new period of history until the early modern period. In doing so, they abandoned the 4,000-year-old traditions of Indo-European, Germanic religions and embarked on the path of the Christian-Roman Empire. 

The Visigoths also came into contact with Christianity, albeit in a different way. After the sacking of Rome in 410, the Visigoths settled in the Western Roman Empire and began to assimilate with Roman culture. They came into contact with the Christian communities in the empire and gradually began to adopt the faith. Eventually, Arianism, a divergent branch within Christianity, became the dominant form of faith among the Visigoths.

The Ostrogoths followed a similar path as the Visigoths. Under the rule of King Theodoric the Great, the Ostrogoths came into contact with Christianity, particularly Arianism. Although Theodoric himself was Arian, he allowed religious tolerance, and churches were built for both Arian and orthodox Christians.

As the Lombards settled in Italy, they came into contact with the Catholic faith of the Roman population. Under the influence of the established Catholic Church, the Lombards gradually converted to Christianity.

For the Anglo-Saxons in Great Britain, the conversion took place with the arrival of Christian missionaries, such as Augustine of Canterbury, who were sent to England by Pope Gregory the Great. Augustine succeeded in converting the king of Kent, King Æthelberht, to Christianity, which led to the conversion of many Anglo-Saxon kingdoms in the following centuries.

The Christianization of the Germanic tribes was a gradual process that occurred through missionaries, contact with other Christian communities, and political considerations. Christianity rooted itself in the Germanic societies and had a profound influence on their culture, laws, and traditions. It marked the beginning of a new era and formed the basic for the Christian kingdoms that would follow in the Middle Ages.

The conversion to Christianity was a gradual process that took several centuries. During part of this process, the population was drawn away from their original traditions, in which they had lived for 4000 years, through legislation and violence. 

This overview contains the most prominent Germanic tribes from the 1st to 4th century AD

Cherusci: A Germanic tribe known for their leader Arminius, who defeated the Romans in the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest.

Suebi: A confederation of Germanic tribes that lived in present-day Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic. They were described as warlike and influenced other Germanic groups.

Quadi: A Germanic tribe that lived in present-day Slovakia, Austria, and Hungary. They were known for their cavalry and participated in conflicts with the Roman Empire.

Marcomanni: A Germanic tribe that lived in present-day Czech Republic and Austria. They had frequent conflicts with the Roman Empire, especially during the Marcomannic Wars.

Hermunduri: A Germanic tribe that lived in present-day Germany and Poland. They had close contacts with the Romans and participated in Roman military campaigns.

Goths: An overarching term for various Germanic tribes, including the Visigoths and Ostrogoths, who would eventually invade the Roman Empire.

Semnones: A Germanic tribe that lived in what is now Germany. They were known for their belligerence and their alleged religious center, the Irminsul.

Lombards: A Germanic tribe originally from Scandinavia that later migrated to present-day Italy, where they founded the kingdom of Lombardy.

Heruli: A Germanic tribe originally from Scandinavia that later migrated south. They participated in raids into the Roman Empire.

Batavians: A Germanic tribe that lived in what is now the Netherlands. They were known for their cavalry skills and were recruited as allies of the Roman Empire.

Angles: A Germanic tribe originally from the area that is now Denmark, later invading parts of England, giving the land the name "Angleland."

Warns: A Germanic tribe that lived in present-day Germany and Denmark. They participated in conflicts with the Roman Empire and were later assimilated by the Saxons.

Chattuarii: A Germanic tribe that lived in what is now the Netherlands and Germany. They were involved in conflicts with the Roman Empire and were later incorporated into the Frankish empire.

Frisians: A Germanic tribe that lived in what is now the Netherlands and Germany. They were known for their trading activities and maritime skills.

Cananefates: A Germanic tribe that lived in what is now the Netherlands. They were considered allies of the Roman Empire and participated in military campaigns.

Lombards: A Germanic tribe originally from Scandinavia that later migrated to present-day Italy, where they founded the Lombard kingdom.

Hermiones: An overarching term for various Germanic tribes that lived in what is now Germany and Poland. They were considered warriors and participated in conflicts with the Roman Empire.

Rugii: A Germanic tribe originally from Scandinavia that later migrated to present-day Poland and Germany. They participated in conflicts with Roman armies.

Burgundians: A Germanic tribe originally from Scandinavia that later migrated to present-day Switzerland and France. They founded the kingdom of Burgundy.

Lombards: A Germanic tribe originally from Scandinavia that later migrated to northern Italy, where they established the Lombard kingdom.

This overview contains the most prominent Germanic tribes from the 5th to 10th century AD

Visigoths: A Germanic tribe that settled in the west of the Roman Empire at the beginning of the 5th century, in the area now covering Spain and Portugal.

Ostrogoths: A Germanic tribe originally from the east that later conquered parts of the Roman Empire in Italy and the Balkans.

Vandals: A Germanic tribe that migrated south from Scandinavia and eventually invaded North Africa, where they established a kingdom.

Franks: A confederation of Germanic tribes that settled in the north of Gaul (present-day France) and eventually formed the Frankish Empire.

Saxons: A Germanic tribe that lived in northern Germany and parts of the Netherlands and Denmark. They were known for their seafaring skills and were both traders and raiders.

Angles: A Germanic tribe originally from the area that is now Denmark and later invaded parts of England, giving the land the name "Angelland."

Lombards: A Germanic tribe originally from Scandinavia that settled in present-day northern Italy, where they founded the Lombard Kingdom.

Alemanni: A confederation of Germanic tribes that lived in the area of present-day southern Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.

Jutes: A Germanic tribe originally from Denmark that settled in parts of northern Germany and present-day Jutland (Denmark).

Longobards: A Germanic tribe originally from Scandinavia that settled in northern Italy, where they established the Kingdom of Lombardy.