Battle of Woden's Burg (592) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Battle of Woden's Barrow (591) |
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| Part of the Anglo-Saxon settlement of Britain | |||||||
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| Belligerents | |||||||
| West Saxons | Britons | ||||||
| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
| Ceawlin | Unknown | ||||||
The Battle of Woden's Barrow happened in the year 591. It took place at a place called Woden's Barrow, which is now known as Adam's Grave. This site is a very old burial mound, called a long barrow, located near Marlborough in Wiltshire, England.
We know about this battle from an old book called the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. This book recorded important events from early English history. The entry for 591 says: "There was great slaughter at Woden's hill, and Ceawlin was driven out." This means a big battle happened, and King Ceawlin lost his power.
What Was the Battle of Woden's Barrow?
The Battle of Woden's Barrow was a significant event in early English history. It marked a major defeat for the West Saxons. The battle led to their king, Ceawlin, being forced out of his kingdom. This event changed who ruled the powerful kingdom of Wessex.
Who Fought in This Battle?
Ceawlin was the king of Wessex, a powerful Anglo-Saxon kingdom in what is now southern England. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle tells us that Ceawlin was defeated and driven out. Most versions of the Chronicle do not say who fought against Ceawlin. However, one version suggests his opponents were the Britons. The Britons were the native people of Britain before the Anglo-Saxons arrived.
Some historians believe that Ceawlin's own nephew, Ceol, might have been the one who fought against him. After this battle, Ceawlin died the next year. His nephew Ceol then became the new king of Wessex. Ceawlin's son, Cuthwine, had to leave the kingdom.
Why Was This Place Important?
Woden's Barrow was a very important location. It was near where two ancient routes crossed. One was The Ridgeway, an old road used for thousands of years. The other was Wansdyke, a large defensive ditch and bank built long ago. Because of these important routes, controlling this area was key for travel and defense.
The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle also mentions another battle at the same site. This second battle happened much later, in the year 715. This shows that Woden's Barrow remained an important strategic spot for many years.
