880s facts for kids
| Millennium: | 1st millennium |
| Centuries: | 8th century – 9th century – 10th century |
| Decades: | 850s 860s 870s – 880s – 890s 900s 910s |
| Years: | 880 881 882 883 884 885 886 887 888 889 |
| Categories: | Births – Deaths – Architecture Establishments – Disestablishments |
The 880s were a fascinating time in history, filled with important events and powerful leaders. This decade saw brave kings defending their lands from invaders and emperors ruling vast empires. It was a period of change and conflict, especially in Europe, where different groups fought for control and new kingdoms began to take shape. Let's explore some of the most significant moments and people from these ten years.
What Happened in the 880s?
The 880s were a busy time, especially with the ongoing challenges from Viking raids and the rise of important leaders. Two major events stand out: the Viking siege of Paris and Alfred the Great's capture of London.
The Viking Siege of Paris (885)
One of the most famous events of the 880s was when a large army of Vikings attacked Paris. This city, located on the Seine River in what is now France, was a key target. The Vikings wanted to raid its riches and gain control of important trade routes.
Who Were the Vikings?
The Vikings were skilled sailors and warriors from Scandinavia (modern-day Norway, Sweden, and Denmark). They were known for their longships and their daring raids across Europe. They often sought wealth and new lands to settle.
Why Was Paris Important?
In the 9th century, Paris was not yet the huge capital it is today, but it was a strategically important city. It had strong walls and bridges that controlled access to the upper Seine River. This made it a valuable prize for anyone wanting to control the region.
How Did the Siege End?
The siege of Paris lasted for many months, from 885 to 886. The people of Paris, led by Odo, Count of Paris, bravely defended their city. Eventually, the Holy Roman Emperor Charles the Fat arrived with an army. Instead of fighting, he paid the Vikings a large sum of money to leave Paris and allowed them to sail upriver to raid other areas. This decision was unpopular with many.
Alfred the Great and London (886)
In England, another important event took place in 886. Alfred the Great, the King of Wessex, successfully captured London. This was a major victory for the Anglo-Saxons against the Vikings who had been occupying parts of England.
Who Was Alfred the Great?
Alfred the Great was a powerful and wise king who ruled the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex. He is famous for defending his kingdom against Viking invasions and for promoting education and law. He is the only English monarch to be called "the Great."
Why Was London Important?
London was a significant city, even in the 9th century. It was a former Roman city with strong defenses and a good location for trade. By taking London, Alfred not only gained a key strategic point but also boosted the morale of his people. This victory helped him to establish more control over southern England.
Key Leaders of the 880s
The 880s were shaped by several influential rulers who played crucial roles in the politics and conflicts of their time.
Emperor Charles the Fat
Charles the Fat was a very powerful ruler during this decade. He was the Holy Roman Emperor and also king of various parts of the Frankish Empire, which covered much of Western Europe. He tried to unite these lands, but his reign was marked by challenges, including the Viking invasions. His decision to pay the Vikings at Paris showed his struggle to maintain control.
King Alfred the Great
As mentioned, Alfred the Great was the King of Wessex. He was a brilliant military leader who successfully defended his kingdom against the Vikings. Beyond his military skills, Alfred was also a scholar who encouraged learning and translated important books into Old English. He laid some of the foundations for what would become England.
Emperor Basil I
Far to the east, in the Byzantine Empire, Basil I was a strong and effective emperor. He ruled from Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). Basil I was known for his military victories, especially against the Arabs, and for reforming the laws of his empire. His reign brought stability and prosperity to the Byzantine Empire during this period.
See also
In Spanish: Años 880 para niños
