Saxen is a term referring to a group of people who are recognized as a Germanic ethnic subgroup. Historically, the Saxen were one of the many tribes that inhabited what is now Germany during the early medieval period. The term "Saxen" is derived from an Old English word, "Seaxe," which means "knife" or "dagger." This name was likely given to the tribe due to their common usage of seaxes, a type of weapon during that time.
The Saxen were known for their distinctive culture, language, and customs. They played a significant role in the formation of the Saxon Empire, which emerged during the Carolingian period. The Saxen, along with the Franks, formed one of the most dominant political forces in early medieval Europe.
The Saxen have left a lasting impact on the region through their contributions to art, literature, and political developments. Their influence can be observed in various aspects of Germanic culture, and their language, Old Saxon, is considered a predecessor of modern German.
Today, the term "Saxen" may be used to refer to individuals with historical roots or ancestral ties to the Saxen tribe, particularly in Germany and regions with a significant Saxon influence. It can also be used to describe people who bear the surname "Saxen" or variations thereof.
