History of Jersey

The history of Jersey, one of the Channel Islands, is shaped by its strategic location and diverse rulers. It was inhabited in ancient times, with influences from Romans, Normans, and English over the centuries. Jersey gained autonomy in local matters but remained under the British Crown. Its economy historically relied on agriculture, especially sheep farming, and later on finance, tourism, and technology. The island has a unique cultural identity, blending Norman, French, and British influences, and has maintained a distinct legal and political system. Today, Jersey is a self-governing Crown Dependency, balancing independence with loyalty to the UK.