Kent (England)

Kent (England), county, southeastern England; Maidstone is the administrative center. Kent lies between the Strait of Dover on the south and southeast and the Thames estuary on the north. The North Downs, a range of chalk hills, traverse the county from east to west and terminate on the strait in the famous White Cliffs. To the south is the fertile lowland area known as The Weald; lowlands and marshes occupy the northern part. Kent is known for its agricultural produce, including fruit, vegetables, and hops. The county has diversified light industry, as well as petroleum refining and fishing activities. It was near Deal that Julius Caesar landed with an army in 55 bc. Roman conquest was completed in ad43, and a series of ports was established along the coast. In the 5th century the region was invaded by the Jutes and subsequently became one of seven Anglo-Saxon kingdoms in England. In the late 6th century, St. Augustine founded an abbey at Canterbury. Area, 3,731 sq km (1,441 sq mi); population 1,329,653 (2001).