Aethelred I ruled the Kingdom of Wessex (southern England) from 865 to 871 and led the English resistance to the Viking invasions of Britain. He won the first English victory over the Great Heathen Army at the Battle of Ashdown (871), for which Victorian historian Edward Augustus Freeman marked him out as "the first of a long line of West-Saxon hero kings" (46). Yet, today, he is primarily remembered as Alfred the Great's (reign 871-899) older brother and predecessor.
More about: Aethelred I of WessexDefinition
Timeline
-
865 - 871Alfred the Great serves as military commander under his brother King Aethelred I against Viking raiders.
-
865 - 871Reign of Aethelred I, son of Aethelwulf, in Wessex; Viking raids continue.
-
871Alfred the Great becomes king of Wessex following Aethelred I's death.
-
8 Jan 871Battle of Ashdown. Aethelred I defeats the Great Heathen Army.
