Historical Encyclopedia
Stone Age and Early Settlers
The history of Belgium begins in the Stone Age, when the area now known as Belgium was inhabited by primitive tribes of hunters and gatherers. The earliest traces of human presence here date back to around 400,000 years ago. During this time, climatic conditions were harsh, and people had to adapt to life in the difficult conditions of the Ice Age. These ancient people used primitive tools made of stone to hunt large animals and gather the gifts of nature.
As climatic conditions improved, around 10,000 years ago, the Mesolithic period began, during which people started to master more advanced tools and technologies. Gradually, hunters and gatherers began transitioning to a more settled way of life, establishing the first settlements. During this time, people began to build small dwellings, use pottery, and refine their stoneworking techniques.
Neolithic: The Birth of Agriculture
About 6,000 years B.C., the Neolithic period began in what is now Belgium — a time of great change. It was during this period that people mastered agriculture and livestock breeding. The emergence of farming led to significant changes in society: people began to build permanent settlements, engage in animal husbandry, and cultivate the land. An important archaeological find of this time was the megalithic structures, which serve as a reminder of the religious and cultural practices of the era.
The Neolithic culture in modern-day Belgium was part of a wider European culture known as the Linear Pottery culture. People began to settle along rivers and streams to secure water for growing crops and keeping livestock. During this time, the first signs of social inequality began to emerge: differences in wealth could manifest through greater numbers of livestock, land, or better housing.
Bronze Age and Early Society
By 2000 B.C., the Bronze Age began, marking a new stage in the history of the region. During this time, people learned to use bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, to create stronger and more effective tools and weapons. This spurred further development of crafts and trade. Trade routes began connecting various regions of Europe, and the influence of other cultures, including the Celts and Germans, started to appear in Belgium.
Archaeological findings suggest that small tribal communities existed in this area, engaging in agriculture, hunting, fishing, and crafts. Bronze was used not only for making tools but also for jewelry, indicating the existence of complex social structures. Leaders played a significant role in society, possessing substantial influence and control over resources.
Iron Age and the Arrival of the Celts
In the 8th century B.C., the Iron Age replaced the Bronze Age. Iron became the primary material for making tools and weapons, significantly improving the quality of life for ancient peoples. During this time, Celtic tribes began to penetrate into modern-day Belgium, greatly influencing the local population. One of the most renowned tribes living here during this period was the Belgae, from whom the modern name of the country is derived.
The Celts were skilled blacksmiths and craftsmen, and their culture spread throughout Western Europe. They brought with them new technologies and agricultural methods, contributing to the further development of the region. During this period, trade and exchange between various Celtic tribes also began to flourish. Archaeological excavations indicate the existence of fortified settlements, which served not only as living spaces but also as centers of crafts and trade.
Roman Conquest
In 57 B.C., the Romans, led by Julius Caesar, began a campaign to conquer lands inhabited by Celtic tribes. The territory of modern-day Belgium became part of the Roman Empire and was incorporated into the province of Gaul. This brought significant changes to the lives of the local population. The Romans constructed roads, aqueducts, and other infrastructure, fostering the development of cities and trade.
Roman influence was notable in all aspects of life. The local population began to adopt Roman customs, religion, and language. Despite this, many aspects of Celtic culture continued to exist, especially in rural areas. One of the most famous archaeological finds of this time is the city of Tongeren, which was founded by the Romans and became an important center on the trade route between Gaul and Germany.
The Roman era marked the integration of the region into a broader Mediterranean civilization. However, by the 3rd century A.D., the Roman Empire began to weaken under pressure from Germanic tribes. The invasions of the Franks eventually led to the collapse of Roman authority in the region and the formation of new political entities, marking the beginning of the Middle Ages in Belgium.