Ælfric of Hampshire facts for kids
Ælfric was an important leader in Hampshire, England, from around 982 until 1016. He held the title of Ealdorman, which was like a powerful governor or a top military commander for a region during the Anglo-Saxon period.
Ælfric became Ealdorman of Hampshire, and possibly Wiltshire, around the year 982. He took over from another leader named Æthelmær.
Ælfric's Role as a Royal Adviser
Ælfric was one of King Æthelred's most trusted advisers. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, a very old historical record, even said he was 'one of those in whom the king trusted most'.
In 991, Ælfric showed his influence. Along with other important figures like Æthelweard and Sigeric, he advised King Æthelred to pay the Danes for peace. This payment, known as Danegeld, was a way to stop Viking raids. The king followed their advice.
Changing Loyalties
Even though Ælfric was highly trusted, his loyalty was not always steady. In 992, he was supposed to lead an attack against a Danish fleet. Instead, he switched sides and joined the Danes. His ship was captured, but Ælfric managed to escape.
This act had serious consequences for his family. The king, Æthelred, punished Ælfric's son, Ælfgar, in 993.
Later, Ælfric seemed to make up with King Æthelred. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle mentions him fighting for the English in 1016. However, in 1003, it was said that Ælfric pretended to be sick. This was to avoid leading an army from Wiltshire and Hampshire against Sweyn Forkbeard, a powerful Viking king. Because of this, Sweyn Forkbeard was able to raid and take goods from Wilton.
Final Battle and Death
Ælfric died fighting for Edmund Ironside, another English king, in the Battle of Assandun. This important battle took place on 18 October 1016.
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