King Alfred the Great of Wantage is remembered in history as one of the most influential and respected leaders of Anglo-Saxon England. Born around 849 CE, he was the fourth son of King Aethelwulf and his wife Osburh. Throughout his life, King Alfred distinguished himself as an energetic ruler and a brilliant strategist who brought peace and stability to England during a period of Viking invasions.
Alfred’s early years saw him being trained for eventual rulership, studying such subjects as Latin, philosophy, theology, astronomy and music – all under the guidance of his mother Osburg. He also traveled extensively throughout Europe during this time and was eventually crowned king at the tender age of 21 in 871.
As king, Alfred set out to expand his kingdom through military campaigns and by settling Viking invaders on English soil. He also sought to reform civil law by issuing a series of laws known as ‘Domboc’. One famous example is that all litigants must speak at a public assembly first – before taking their case to court – in order to seek resolution without violence or costly legal fees.
In addition to expanding his kingdom and reforming law, Alfred is credited with introducing several improvements which enabled England’s development including the reorganization of the army into shires or counties for better defense; improved taxation systems; improvements in agriculture; improvement in livestock breeding; establishment of markets; reforms in coinage; construction of fortifications; and establishment of schools to improve literacy among children. All these progressive initiatives have led historians today to regard him as one of England’s greatest kings.
Beyond his political actions, King Alfred left behind a number of translations from Latin texts into Old English which helped preserve knowledge from antiquity such as Gregory’s Pastoral Care and Boethius’ Consolation Of Philosophy which are still read today. He also wrote many original works including The Cura Pastoralis (Pastoral Care) which offered guidance to Christian priests on how they should care for their flock – both spiritual and temporal concerns were covered within it.
To sum up, King Alfred the Great stands out in history due to being one of the wisest rulers that ever lived during his time period – drawing upon his deep knowledge base he used strategies ranging from diplomacy to military prowess while laying down foundations that would ensure stability in Anglo-Saxon England for centuries to come. His legacy continues today with numerous monuments erected in honour around Wantage, Oxfordshire – testimony not only to Alfred’s greatness but also its lasting impact on modern-day Britain itself!
