Alfred and London

Question 1

What was the strategic importance of London?

Answer 1

Whoever had possession of the town controlled passage along the Thames - this allowed it to become a trade heartland and give Alfred control over the entire South Coast - it would also give him easy access to Mercia

Question 2

How did occupation of London change during this time period?

Answer 2

Changed several times between three adversaries

Question 3

What happened after Alfred’s victory at Edington 878?

Answer 3

The Vikings retreated east to Essex
Guthrum, the Viking leader, agreed to a treaty with Alfred dividing territory between them
A border was created between the kingdom of the Anglo-Saxons and the territory of Danelaw

Question 4

How did Alfred gain control of Mercia?

Answer 4

Married his daughter Aethelflead to Aethelred of Mercia - the marriage meant the alliance with Mercia was permanent

Question 5

How was Mercia used as a political tool?

Answer 5

Given to his son-in-law Aethelred of Mercia as a dowry

Question 6

What made Alfred recognise the strategic importance of London?

Answer 6

Rochester attack 885 - London to Benfleet (East Anglia) was short, provided advantage for their boats - pathway into England = strategic importance, prevent future attacks through Thames

Question 7

What did Alfred do to London after obtaining it and what was the impact?

Answer 7

He utilised old Roman defense walls to create a London Burh and then fortified it with 1800 soldiers - trade increased in London 3x every day after Alfred took over - made London incredibly profitable