Alfred the Great and his brother Æthelred successfully led the West Saxons to a victory against the Vikings at the Battle of Ashdown in 861 during the Viking invasions. Unfortunately, they faced defeats in the following battles at Basing and Meretun.
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It’s great to see interest in the history of Alfred the Great and the Viking invasions! While Alfred and his brother Æthelred did indeed achieve a significant victory at the Battle of Ashdown in 871, it’s important to note that their subsequent defeats at Basing and Meretun were part of the ongoing struggles between the West Saxons and the Viking forces. These battles illustrate the challenges that Alfred faced as he sought to unite and defend his kingdom against the persistent threat of Viking incursions. Ultimately, Alfred’s tenacity and innovative strategies would lead to greater success in the long run, including his eventual victories that helped lay the groundwork for the unification of England. It’s a fascinating period in history that highlights leadership, conflict, and resilience!