Description

The political and cultural achievements on behalf of Anglo-Saxon England during his reign as King of Wessex from 871-899 earned his title extension ‘the Great’. Born the youngest son of King ᴁthelwulf of Wessex, After the death of his father in 858, Alfred had three older brothers who ruled prior to his reign.

In 860, two years before ascending the throne of Wessex, Alfred married ᴁlhswith of Gaines and Mercia. During this period Viking raiders invaded and plundered England. Losing the battle of the Viking invasion of 878 by the Danish ‘Great Army’, Alfred was forced into hiding. He returned to the battlefield that same year at Edington where he defeated the Vikings.

Alfred went on to build strong defenses, incorporating forts and building a fleet of ships; and he initiated required military service for free men in his kingdom. During his rule, Alfred unified Wessex, annexed part of Mercia, and brought the princes of Wales under his authority.

Recognized as a Christian King of England, Alfred strongly promoted literacy, education, and assembled scholars to promote learning.

When Alfred died in 899, he left Wessex stronger and its kingship better established.