English Kings Who Fought the Danes: The Battle Against Viking Invasion

The history of Anglo-Saxon England is filled with fierce battles and great kings who stood against the Viking invasion. Understanding which English kings fought these invaders can shed light on the period and the structure of governance during the Danish incursions. Below, we explore the key figures who fought against the Danes, starting with the intricate political landscape of the time.

The Background of the Danish Invasion

Before delving into specific kings, it is essential to understand the broader context. The term 'heptarchy' refers to the seven main Anglo-Saxon kingdoms:

East Anglia Essex Northumbria East Saxony (Essex) Kent Sussex Wessex

Although there were other smaller kingdoms, these seven were the most prominent. The Danish invasions began in earnest in the 9th century, leading to the formation of the Danelaw, an area in England where Danish law prevailed over Saxon law. The Danelaw was not simply a 'Viking law' but a distinct legal and administrative territory with its own rules and governance frameworks.

Key Figures in the Resistance

With the political landscape in mind, we now turn to the notable kings who led the resistance against the Danes. Some of the early resistance came from Aethelwolf, Aethelbald, and Aethelbehrt, but the most famous and successful resistance came from subsequent kings.

Alfred the Great: The Turnaround King

Alfred the Great (871-899) is undoubtedly the most famous of the English kings who resisted the Danish invasions. He defeated the Danes at the Battle of Ashdown in 871 and again at the Battle of Edington in 878. These victories are particularly significant as they highlight the resilience and strategic acumen of Alfred. His reign is often celebrated as a turning point in English history, with significant cultural and political developments.

Further Resistance and Conquests

Following Alfred, several other notable kings led the resistance:

Athelstan (924-939) encountered resistance in Wessex but was crowned the first Anglo-Saxon ruler of the whole of England in 927 after conquering the last remaining Viking kingdom in York. Harold Godwinson (1066) fought against the Normans at the Battle of Hastings, although his predecessor Aethelred also faced significant Danish invasions at the start of his rule.

Understanding the Danish Influence

The Danish invasions led to the formation of the Danelaw, a region in England where Norwegian and Danish law prevailed. This period of history is crucial for understanding the complex legal and social structures that developed during the Viking Age. The Danelaw is best understood as the Danegeld, a tax imposed by the Danes, or as an area where Norse and Danish laws were incorporated into the governance of the region.

Conclusion

The fight against the Viking invasion was a significant period in English history. Alfred the Great stands out as a pivotal figure whose victories and subsequent reign laid the foundation for a more unified English kingdom. Understanding these key figures not only enriches our historical knowledge but also highlights the resilience and strategic ingenuity of the Anglo-Saxon kings who stood against the Danes.

Keywords: English kings, Viking invasion, Alfred the Great