Did the invading Germanic peoples who overran the Western Roman Empire extensively colonize or leave any significant genetic impact in places like Italy, Spain, Great Britain and France or did they just become the ruling elite and keep to themselves?

by [deleted]
thejukeboxhero

I have answered similar questions on this topic in the past, particularly with regards to early medieval Spain (links below). Most of the 'barbarian' groups that established post-Roman successor states numbered only in the tens of thousands. Large enough to affect serious political changes, but still an overwhelming minority in terms of total population. However, I would not say that the new rulers remained a distinct and isolate group. Identity is a messy thing, and is more tied to culture than genetics (though inter-marriage did happen). While early medieval law codes might stress the legal distinction between, for example, Frank and Roman, over time the lines between identities blurred and blended. It's a bit of a broad topic, but if you have any follow up questions, please feel free to ask!