Ælfrd

Ælfrd, often known as Alfred the Great, was King of the Anglo-Saxons from 871 to 899. He was the youngest son of King Æthelwulf of Wessex. Alfred came to the throne during a period of intense Viking activity in England. He is renowned for his successful defense against the Viking attempts to conquer the kingdom, particularly at the Battle of Edington in 878. This victory marked a turning point in the struggle against the Norsemen and is credited with preserving a distinct Anglo-Saxon culture.

Beyond his military achievements, Alfred was a dedicated administrator and legislator. He reorganized the army and the navy, establishing a more effective defense system. He also initiated a program of legal reform and promoted literacy and education. Alfred commissioned the translation of important Latin works into Old English, making knowledge more accessible to his people. He is the only English monarch to be given the epithet "the Great." His reign laid foundations for a more unified England and his legacy continues to be celebrated in British history and culture.