History
Alfred the Great: England's Unlikely Savior
Discover Alfred the Great, the King of Wessex who saved England from Viking conquest and laid the foundations for a unified nation.
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What is it?
Alfred the Great (849-899) was the King of Wessex who famously defended his kingdom against Viking invasions, becoming the dominant ruler in England. He was the youngest son of King Æthelwulf and was not expected to rule. After ascending the throne in 871 during a period of intense conflict, he spent years fighting the Vikings. His most decisive victory came at the Battle of Edington in 878, which led to a peace treaty with the Viking leader Guthrum and the establishment of the Danelaw, a territory in the north and east of England under Danish control. Alfred began to style himself as "King of the Anglo-Saxons," marking a crucial step towards a unified England.
Why is it trending?
Alfred's story endures because he is the only English monarch to be called "the Great." This title recognizes his incredible achievements beyond the battlefield. Faced with the near-total collapse of his kingdom, he not only secured its survival but also implemented far-sighted reforms. He reorganized the army, built a navy to protect the coast, and established a network of fortified towns known as burhs. Crucially, he championed education and literacy, believing them essential for his people's well-being. He promoted the use of English and initiated major translation works, including the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle.
How does it affect people?
Alfred's reign had a profound and lasting impact on the English people and the course of British history. By halting the Viking conquest, he preserved the existence of an independent Anglo-Saxon kingdom which would later unify England. His legal reforms, which blended tradition with Christian values, provided a new standard of justice and stability for his subjects. His commitment to education helped revive learning and created a stronger sense of shared identity and culture among the English. The administrative and military structures he introduced laid the groundwork for the powerful medieval English state that his successors would build upon.