King Alfred the Great

Definition

King Alfred the Great was the King of Wessex from 871 to 899, renowned for his defense against Viking invasions and for being a key figure in the unification of England. His reign marked a period of significant military and cultural advancement, leading to the establishment of a more organized and centralized government, as well as the promotion of education and literacy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Alfred successfully defended Wessex from a series of Viking invasions, particularly at the Battle of Edington in 878, which led to a peace treaty with the Vikings.
2. He was instrumental in the establishment of fortified towns known as 'burhs,' which improved defense and security across his kingdom.
3. Alfred initiated educational reforms, promoting literacy by translating important texts into Old English and encouraging learning among his people.
4. He is credited with creating a legal code that helped unify various laws across his realm, contributing to a more cohesive legal system.
5. Alfred's legacy includes the founding of a more unified England and his reputation as a wise and just ruler, earning him the title 'the Great.'

Review Questions

• How did King Alfred the Great's military strategies contribute to his success against Viking invasions?
  • King Alfred's military strategies were pivotal in his defense against Viking invasions. He employed tactics like guerrilla warfare and utilized fortified towns known as burhs for better defense. His decisive victory at the Battle of Edington not only halted further Viking advances but also led to a peace treaty that allowed him to secure Wessex and strengthen his authority.
• Discuss the impact of King Alfred's educational reforms on Anglo-Saxon society.
  • King Alfred's educational reforms had a profound impact on Anglo-Saxon society by promoting literacy and learning among his people. He translated several key texts into Old English, making them accessible to a broader audience. This push for education helped foster a sense of culture and identity within his kingdom, leading to a more informed populace that could engage with legal and religious texts.
• Evaluate how King Alfred the Great's reign laid the groundwork for the unification of England in subsequent centuries.
  • King Alfred's reign laid crucial groundwork for the unification of England by establishing a centralized government, legal code, and fortified defense structures against external threats. His successful resistance against Viking incursions not only strengthened Wessex but also inspired other kingdoms to unite against common foes. The cultural and administrative advancements during his rule set a precedent for future rulers, helping to unify England into a single kingdom over time.

Related terms

Vikings: Norse seafarers known for their raids and explorations across Europe during the late 8th to early 11th centuries, particularly in Britain.

Danelaw: The historical name given to the part of England that was under the control of the Viking settlers, established through treaties with local rulers.

Anglo-Saxon Chronicle: A collection of annals in Old English chronicling the history of the Anglo-Saxons, particularly focusing on key events and rulers from Alfred's time onward.