(Latin: annatis, yearly)
Chronological records registering from day to day events of each year. The prototype of medieval annals is the "Chronographus" of 354, an official document of the Roman Empire. In England the custom arose of writing lists of events on margins of paschal tables. Anglo-Saxon missionaries introduced the practise of annal-writing into other countries. The Carlovingian annals were at first concerned with monastic records; later, secular annals were written. Medieval annals usually are anonymous; the chronology is often inaccurate and, as is the case with chronicles, care must be taken to distinguish legend from historical facts.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
Read More