The Significance of Alfred the Great
Alfred the Great is renowned for being one of the most influential figures in British history and is the only English monarch to ever have the title ‘the Great’ bestowed upon them. He was born in 849AD and was the 5th son of King Aethelwulf. He was known for his leadership and his resilience in unifying the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex against fierce Viking invasions and is credited with stabilizing and improving numerous aspects of the kingdom. With many of his accomplishments worthy of recognition, his influence and legacy still live on today.
Early Life
Alfred was born at the Royal Palace at Wantage, Berkshire and was baptized at the church of All Saints. His education was not what would be expected for a king’s son in today’s age, however for the time period, he was well educated and an avid reader. Alfred was able to read Latin and Old English which gave him access to many important texts including the Bible. As one of Aethelwulf’s five sons, he was chosen to be the new King of Wessex at the age of 21.
Unification of England
Among Alfred’s main accomplishments, was the unification of England. This was an incredible feat that no other ruler had yet achieved. When Alfred rose to power he found the kingdom of Wessex under assault from the Vikings. He managed to halt their invasion and drive them out of Wessex by implementing a number of innovative strategies and military tactics. He then went on to expand his control over other areas in Anglo-Saxon Britain including Northumbria, East Anglia, and Mercia. This resulted in the formation of a unified kingdom of England.
Building of Naval Fleet
Another key feat of Alfred’s was the building of a navy fleet. He had long realised that the Vikings would use their longships for their attacks and so he devised a plan to build an equally powerful fleet. Alfred ordered the construction of a fleet of Longships, referred to as Wessex tall ships. This gave him the capability of controlling the seas both defensively and offensively. This was a great milestone in naval warfare, as it allowed the Royal Navy to protect the kingdom, as well as attack enemy ships. This ensured Alfred’s total control of the water, leading to a great triumph over the Viking invaders.
Legal System
Alfred also laid the foundations for a more effective legal system in Wessex. He put into law rules that were previously intended only to be enforced through custom and tradition. He passed laws against theft and fraud, in addition to rules on inheritance and land-owning. His laws were so well respected and effective, many of them remained the same for centuries to come. In fact, some of Alfred’s laws are still in use in Great Britain today.
Military Improvements
Alfred was also responsible for many military improvements during his reign. He formed a standing army and built a network of fortified towns and castles. This allowed him to protect his kingdom and defend against any Viking invasions effectively. He also began the practice of dividing his army into two wings, instead of having them fight as one large unit. This allowed him to execute more strategic maneuvers against the enemy and made Wessex’s army much stronger.
The Defence of the Kingdom
One of the main reasons Alfred was widely respected was his strong defense of the kingdom. Under Alfred’s rule, England was permanently unified for the first time and the Viking invasions were successfully repulsed. He also established a shire system, creating a new regional tax structure that allowed a standing army to be formed for the defense of the kingdom. Furthermore, Alfred is credited with the formation of the famous cavalry force that became known as ‘Housecarls’ and proved successful against the Vikings in many battles.
Legacy of Alfred the Great
Alfred went beyond unifying the kingdom and setting strong defense, he also strove to make England a better place in terms of culture and society. He encouraged education, writing, and arts, and he even edited books in his own language. He improved trade, encouraged infrastructure, and helped establish England as a more powerful nation.
Alfred’s legacy has lasted for centuries and his influence can still be felt in England today. He is celebrated as one of the greatest kings of England, and his memory continues to be cherished in British history books. His accomplishments stand as an example of a leader who unified his kingdom, improved its infrastructure, and defended it against all odds.
Alfred the Great is renowned in English history for his immense contributions to his country. He was the first to succeed in unifying England, he improved its legal and taxation systems, and created a powerful navy to protect it. He also encouraged education, writing, and the arts, leaving a lasting legacy which is still celebrated today. Alfred the Great is an example of a strong leader and a unifier of England, and his importance to British history cannot be understated.
