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A well defined physical region bordered on the south by the Shropshire Hills, to the West by the Welsh Mountains, to the North by the Mersey and Lancashire Moors and to the East by the Pennines. This natural basin boasts much of Englands finest lowland landscapes, whose verdant character reflects its soft climate. The well preserved hedgerows of Cheshire and rural tranquillity of Shropshire’s scenic hills testify to the rich countryland of this western province. The industrial age heritage, which includes the potteries in Stoke, Iron bridge in Shropshire and the great Victorian city of Manchester also represents a distinctive regional attraction.
Mercia, from the Old English 'Mierce' meaning ‘People of the Marches (Boundaries)’, the traditional interpretation was that the kingdom originated along the frontier between the Welsh and the Anglo-Saxon invaders, [although some point to settlements in the upper and middle Trent valley]. Whatever its origins, Mercia was to emerge as the dominant Saxon kingdom, embracing much of England, and reaching its zenith under Offa in the 8th century. [ An impression of his Staffordshire base here] This province name acknowledges the important role of the early kingdom in synthesizing the nation, and it is particularly appropriate for this province whose history was for so long dominated by the Marcher Lords consolidating the English-Welsh border.
As indicated in the map the province preserved some degree of autonomy later than most. The Earldom of Chester and Shrewsbury were one of the last few palatine earldoms in England following 1066 and William the Conqueror.
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