Burhs

Definition

Burhs were fortified settlements established in Anglo-Saxon England, primarily during the late 9th and early 10th centuries, to provide protection against Viking invasions. These structures served not only as military strongholds but also as centers for trade and community life, playing a significant role in the transformation of urban landscapes and the organization of society during this period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Burhs were strategically located to guard against Viking raids and were often situated near rivers or important trade routes to enhance their defensive capabilities.
2. The construction of burhs was initiated by King Alfred the Great as part of his military reforms, showcasing a shift towards a more organized approach to defense.
3. Each burh served as a hub for local governance, trade, and community interactions, helping to foster economic growth during a time of external threats.
4. Burhs were typically surrounded by defensive walls and ditches, often with gates that could be fortified to control access during times of conflict.
5. The establishment of burhs contributed to the eventual unification of England by creating centers of loyalty and administration that helped consolidate power under Alfred and his successors.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of burhs reflect King Alfred's military strategies and his approach to governance during the Viking Age?
  • The establishment of burhs was a direct response to the Viking threat and reflected Alfred's innovative military strategies aimed at defending his kingdom. By creating these fortified settlements, Alfred not only aimed to provide immediate protection but also established centers for local governance. The burhs allowed for better organization of resources and troops, facilitating a more cohesive defense strategy against Viking incursions while promoting community stability.
• Discuss the economic impact of burhs on local communities in Anglo-Saxon England and how they facilitated trade despite ongoing threats.
  • Burhs significantly influenced local economies by serving as safe spaces for trade amid the Viking threats. The fortified walls provided security that encouraged merchants to gather, leading to increased economic activity within these settlements. Additionally, burhs facilitated the exchange of goods between different regions, allowing communities to thrive even in turbulent times. Their role as economic hubs helped strengthen social ties and contributed to the overall resilience of Anglo-Saxon society.
• Evaluate the role of burhs in the process of English unification under Alfred and his successors, considering their influence on regional governance.
  • Burhs played a crucial role in the unification of England by serving as symbols of centralized authority and local governance under Alfred's rule. They enabled the king to assert control over various regions by fostering loyalty among local leaders who managed these fortified settlements. As these burhs became interconnected through trade and defense alliances, they laid the groundwork for a more unified English identity. Ultimately, their presence helped transform regional governance structures that facilitated cooperation among different communities in the face of external threats.

Related terms

Witan: An assembly of nobles and clergy in Anglo-Saxon England that advised the king and made important decisions about governance, including matters related to defense and territorial management.

Danelaw: The region of England under the control of the Danish Vikings, which influenced local governance, law, and culture during the late Anglo-Saxon period.

Defensive architecture: The design and construction of buildings and structures intended for protection against military attacks, including walls, ditches, and watchtowers commonly found in burhs.