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King Alfred the Great: The Man Who Inspired a Nation

Aleksandr Pushkin

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The Battle of Ethandun: A Turning Point in English History

A Portrait Of King Alfred The Great, A Wise And Just Ruler Who Led England To Victory Against The Vikings King Alfred The Great And The Battle Of Ethandun

King Alfred the Great is one of the most important figures in English history. He was a wise and just ruler who led England to victory against the Vikings in the Battle of Ethandun. This battle was a turning point in English history, and it helped to shape the country that we know today.

King Alfred the Great and the Battle of Ethandun

by Andrew Staden

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Language	:	English
File size	:	544 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	42 pages

Alfred was born in Wantage, Berkshire, in 849 AD. He was the fifth son of King Aethelwulf of Wessex. Alfred was a sickly child, but he was also very intelligent. He was educated at the court of his uncle, King Aethelred of Wessex. Alfred learned to read and write, and he became fluent in Latin. He was also a skilled hunter and warrior.

In 871 AD, Alfred's father died and his older brother, Aethelred, became king. Aethelred was a weak and ineffective ruler. The Vikings took advantage of this and invaded England. They burned and looted many towns and villages, and they killed many people.

In 878 AD, Aethelred died and Alfred became king. Alfred was determined to drive the Vikings out of England. He raised an army and fought against the Vikings in several battles. In 878 AD, Alfred won a great victory against the Vikings at the Battle of Ethandun.

The Battle of Ethandun was a turning point in English history. It was the first time that the English had defeated the Vikings in a major battle. The victory gave the English hope that they could drive the Vikings out of England. Alfred followed up his victory at Ethandun by building a series of fortified towns and castles. He also organized a system of local government and justice. Alfred's reforms helped to create a more stable and prosperous England.

Alfred was not only a great warrior and king, but he was also a wise and just ruler. He was interested in learning and culture. He founded several schools and invited scholars to his court. Alfred also translated many Latin works into English. His translations helped to make learning more accessible to the English people.

Alfred the Great died in 899 AD. He was succeeded by his son, Edward the Elder. Edward continued his father's work and helped to make England a powerful and prosperous kingdom.

Alfred the Great is one of the most important figures in English history. He was a wise and just ruler who led England to victory against the Vikings. Alfred's reforms helped to create a more stable and prosperous England. He was also a great patron of learning and culture. Alfred's legacy continues to inspire people today.

Here are some of the key events in Alfred the Great's life:

849 AD: Alfred is born in Wantage, Berkshire.
871 AD: Alfred's father, King Aethelwulf, dies and his brother, Aethelred, becomes king.
878 AD: Aethelred dies and Alfred becomes king.
878 AD: Alfred wins a great victory against the Vikings at the Battle of Ethandun.
899 AD: Alfred the Great dies and is succeeded by his son, Edward the Elder.