South West Anarchy Research Project

The Department of Anthropology at the University of Bristol presents the South West Anarchy Research Project (SWARP), funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This pioneering initiative explores over a thousand years of anarchy, civil unrest, and resistance in South West England, intertwining archaeological investigation with community engagement to enrich our understanding of the region's heritage.

SWARP commences its investigation with the 12th-century anarchy following the White Ship disaster. This period, marked by the succession struggle between Matilda and Stephen of Blois, reveals itself through the proliferation of fortifications and unique coinage. These physical remnants, from castles to ecclesiastical fortifications, are crucial in understanding the socio-political landscape of mediaeval England.

Key sites include Hartygrove, South Gloucestershire, a focus of our Student Training Excavation; Bristol Castle, a strategic Norman fortress and key player in the anarchy period; Royal Fort House & Gardens, evidencing the fortifications from the English Civil War; and Stokes Croft, Bristol, where contemporary graffiti murals offer insights into modern resistance and cultural heritage.

SWARP's interdisciplinary approach utilises archaeological and anthropological methodologies to unravel how periods of upheaval have shaped the region's landscapes and communities. This project not only contributes significantly to academic discourse but also fosters community involvement, ensuring a holistic understanding of the enduring legacies of rebellion and resilience in South West England.