886 facts for kids

The year 886 AD was a time of important changes in Europe. Kings and emperors made big decisions that affected their lands and people. New ways of writing were adopted, and cities like London became more important.

Key Events of 886

How Writing Changed in Bulgaria

In 886, a special alphabet called the Glagolitic alphabet was officially adopted in the Bulgarian Empire. This alphabet was created by two missionaries, Cyril and Methodius, who came from Constantinople. They wanted to help people in Slavic lands read and understand religious texts in their own language. This was a big step for education and culture in Bulgaria.

Alfred the Great and London

Alfred the Great was a powerful king in England. In 886, he achieved a major victory by capturing the city of London. He then gave it a new name: Lundenburgh. This move was very important because it changed the borders between Alfred's kingdom of Wessex and the lands controlled by the Vikings.

King Alfred also worked to improve London. He built a small harbor called Queenhythe a little way upriver from London Bridge. This would have helped with trade and travel.

Alfred the Great was also known for his money reforms. In 886, he started minting the very first halfpenny coins. Before this, if someone needed a halfpenny, they would just cut a regular penny in half!

Alfred also made an important political move. He gave control of London to Earl Aethelred. To strengthen this alliance, Alfred's sister, Ethelfleda, married Aethelred. This helped unite different parts of England against common enemies.

Changes in the Byzantine Empire

In the Byzantine Empire, a new emperor took the throne. Leo VI became emperor after his stepfather, Basil I, passed away. One of Leo VI's first actions was to replace the head of the church, known as the patriarch, Photius. He chose his own brother, Stephen I, to take this important religious position.

Education in Bulgaria

Khan Boris I of Bulgaria was very keen on education and spreading the new alphabet. He established two important learning centers: the Preslav Literary School and the Ohrid Literary School. These schools played a huge role in developing Bulgarian literature and culture.

Peace with Vikings in France

In France, Charles II faced constant threats from Viking raiders. To stop their attacks on Paris, he chose to buy peace from them. This meant paying the Vikings a large sum of money to leave the city alone.

Images for kids

• 

  Emperor Leo VI (the Wise) (866–912)

See also

In Spanish: 886 para niños