How old was king Alfred when he became king?

As King of Wessex at the age of 21, Alfred (reigned 871-99) was a strongminded but highly strung battle veteran at the head of remaining resistance to the Vikings in southern England.

How did Alfred the Great become king?

Alfred became king in AD871 when his elder brother died. During his reign he was advised by a council of nobles and church leaders. This council was called the Witan. Alfred made good laws and believed education was important.

Why did king Alfred become king?

In 853, Alfred is reported by the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle to have been sent to Rome where he was confirmed by Pope Leo IV, who “anointed him as king”. Victorian writers later interpreted this as an anticipatory coronation in preparation for his eventual succession to the throne of Wessex.

Does Alfred become king in Vikings?

Whether his brother was involved or not, Alfred was victorious, skillfully leading his forces, and drove the Vikings from the field. Encouraged by this victory, the brothers pursued the Vikings and met them again at Basing but were defeated. In April, Aethelred died and Alfred became king.

Was Alfred A real king?

Alfred, also spelled Aelfred, byname Alfred the Great, (born 849—died 899), king of Wessex (871–899), a Saxon kingdom in southwestern England. He prevented England from falling to the Danes and promoted learning and literacy. Compilation of the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle began during his reign, circa 890.

When did King Alfred take over as King of Wessex?

Alfred took over as king of Wessex in 871 (bypassing his nephew Aethelwold, son of the late king Aethelred) in the middle of a year of nine major battles between the West Saxons and Vikings, which the former were lucky to survive.

What was the date of King Alfred’s death?

Alfred does seem to have been a rather exceptional ruler, but it seems to have been a case of the right person in the right place at the right time. Q: Where, when and how did King Alfred die, and who was he succeeded by? A: Alfred died on 26 October 899. The exact circumstances and the place of his death are not known.

Who was the second son of King Alfred?

Little is known of Alfred’s ‘spare’, his second son, Æthelweard, but his heir, Edward the Elder, succeeded their father in 899, and continued the family success story. The Last Kingdom S4 E1 review: will Alfred’s legacy come tumbling down? Q: Alfred is well known for his victories against the Vikings.

Who was the King of England in 899?

Alfred, also spelled Aelfred, byname Alfred The Great (born 849—died 899) king of Wessex (871–899), a Saxon kingdom in southwestern England. He prevented England from falling to the Danes and promoted learning and literacy.