Aelfred's Britain: War and Peace in the Viking Age

The story of Aelfred the Great, his war against the Vikings, and the foundations of modern Britain are explored in Max Adams' book. In 865, a host of Norse warriors landed on England's eastern coast, overwhelming East Anglia and laying the North to waste. In 871, they penetrated deep into Wessex, ruled by a new king, Ælfred. Despite the threat, Ælfred and his successors adapted and survived, laying the foundations of the nations of modern Britain.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2020
Publisher: Head of Zeus

In the year 865, a formidable army of seasoned Norse warriors arrived on the eastern coast of England, swiftly conquering East Anglia and causing widespread destruction in the North. These ghostly invaders, navigating along estuaries and inshore waters, reached as far as the southern kingdom of Wessex, governed by a young and untested king named Ælfred, the son of Æðelwulf. The situation appeared dire, as it seemed like the End of Days had arrived.

Max Adams takes us on a captivating journey to recount the heroic endeavors of Ælfred, his successors, and fellow kings of Britain. They faced an unprecedented apocalyptic threat and yet, through their resilience and adaptability, they managed to not only survive but also lay the foundations of the diverse nations of modern Britain.

The Norse invasion posed a significant challenge to the existing political and social structures of England. The invaders were skilled warriors, adept at siege warfare and naval combat, and their arrival disrupted the established power dynamics. However, Ælfred and his successors recognized the need for adaptation and unity in the face of this existential threat.

They implemented various strategies to counter the Viking threat. One of the most effective was the establishment of a network of fortified settlements known as burhs, which served as strategic strongholds against the invaders. These burhs were strategically placed throughout the kingdom, providing a refuge for the people and a base for military operations.

Ælfred also played a crucial role in fostering cultural and political unity within England. He encouraged the adoption of Christianity, which helped to unify the people and create a shared identity. He also promoted the development of a common language and legal system, which facilitated trade and communication across the kingdom.

In addition to these defensive measures, Ælfred and his successors also embarked on a campaign of territorial expansion. They sought to reclaim lands that had been lost to the Vikings and expand their influence beyond the boundaries of Wessex. This expansion led to the creation of new kingdoms, such as Mercia and East Anglia, which were eventually merged into the larger kingdom of England.

The legacy of Ælfred and his successors is profound. They not only survived the Viking invasion but also laid the foundations for the modern nations of Britain. Their efforts in promoting unity, cultural exchange, and territorial expansion paved the way for the development of a diverse and prosperous society.

The story of Ælfred the Great, his war against the Vikings, and the foundations of modern Britain is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of human civilization. It reminds us of the importance of unity, cultural diversity, and territorial expansion in shaping the course of history. As we look back at the past, we can learn from the successes and failures of our ancestors and use them as a guide to build a better future for ourselves and future generations.

Weight: 464g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789546637
Edition number: Reissue