Research Paper On The Battle Of Edington

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The Battle of Edington took place May 6, 878 - May 12, 878. (“The Battle of Edington”). This battle not only marked history but also showcased King Alfred as a tremendous leader. The English kingdom was unstable due to the Viking assaults in the Anglo Saxon region, which took place against the backdrop of the battle. (“Alfred the Great and the Battle of Edington”) This battle not only snapped the course of English history but laid the groundwork for a united Anglo-Saxon kingdom. Anglo Saxon England saw terrible times in the late 9th century due to the results of the invasions that caused harm throughout the region. (“Britain Express”) Their Alliance known as the "Great Heathen Army" had already destroyed most of England. (“Alfred the Great …show more content…

(“Alfred the Great and the Battle of Edington”) Shields were placed together creating a wall and spears were put through the small opening of the wall. During the battle, Allred's men wore out the Danes and eventually chased the Danes into a trap. After 14 days of starvation, the Danes sued for "peace", creating the “Peace of Wedmore”. (“Britain Express”) According to Asser, Alfred's contemporary biographer, the Battle of Edington was marked by intense and determined combat ( Asser 1).Alfred was a realist; he realized that he could never hope to drive the Danes out of the rest of England. (“Britain Express”) The best he could hope for was to keep his current possessions.By the terms of the peace agreement, known as the Peace of Wedmore, Guthrun agreed to withdraw to territory already under Danish control, that is, behind the Roman Watling Street. (“Britain Express”) In addition, he and his captains were baptized into Christianity(“Britain Express”). In addition,to making sure of the safety of his kingdom, Alfred's heroic defense of Wessex marked the beginning of a major English unifying movement.However, there were some that thought it was not merely a military

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