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Guthrum

Type Figure Region Denmark Time c. 840–890 Also known as Guthrum、Guthorm、Æthelstan (baptismal name)

Guthrum was a 9th-century Danish Viking military leader, one of the core leaders of the Great Heathen Army.…

Timeline

  1. c. 871–878England · EnglandGuthrum led Danish Viking forces deep into England, capturing parts of East Anglia, and for a long time confronted Alfred of Wessex, at one point forcing him to retreat to the Isle of Athelney.
  2. 878–879Edington · WiltshireIn 878 Guthrum was decisively defeated at the Battle of Edington, forced to make peace with Alfred, baptized at Chippenham, taking the Christian name Æthelstan, and agreed to withdraw from Wessex.
  3. 879–890East Anglia · East AngliaAfter his baptism Guthrum ruled East Anglia according to the Treaty of Wedmore, establishing a settled polity in the Danelaw, until his death in 890. His rule marked the Viking shift in eastern England from raiding to feudal settlement.

Sources