870s facts for kids

The 870s were a busy time in history, especially in Europe! During these ten years, from 870 to 879, powerful kings and warriors shaped the future of countries like England and Norway. It was a time of big changes, battles, and new beginnings.

Big Events of the 870s

The Danes in England

• In 870, a group of fierce warriors called the Danes invaded England. They were very strong and quickly took over a part of England called East Anglia.
• They fought many battles against the kingdom of Wessex, led by their king, Alfred the Great. After some fighting, they made peace in 871.
• The Danes then started to create their own areas in England, which became known as the Danelaw. This was a part of England where Danish laws and customs were followed.
• But the peace didn't last long! In 876, the Danes attacked Wessex again.
• In 878, King Alfred the Great had to hide in a small fort in the marshes of Somerset.
• However, later that year, Alfred bravely defeated the Danes!
• After this victory, England was divided. One part in the northeast was controlled by the Danes, and the other part in the south and west belonged to Wessex.

Changes in Cornwall

• In the southwest of England, the people of Cornwall were slowly pushed back by other groups.
• Their King Dungarth (also known as Doniert or Dumgarth) sadly passed away in battle around the middle of this decade.

Norway Becomes One Kingdom

• In 872, a very important battle happened called the Battle of Hafrsfjord.
• After this battle, Harald Fairhair managed to unite all of Norway under one ruler for the first time. This was a huge step for Norway's history!

Important People

• Alfred the Great
• Harald I of Norway
• Rhodri Mawr (the Great)
• Charles the Bald
• Rurik

See also

In Spanish: Años 870 para niños