Guthrum facts for kids

Guthrum or Guðrum (died around 890 AD) was a very important Viking leader. He was known as the King of the Danish Vikings who settled in a part of England called the Danelaw. This was an area where Danish laws and customs were followed. Guthrum is most famous for his battles and peace treaty with Alfred the Great, the King of Wessex.

In 878, Guthrum became a Christian and was given the new name Æthelstan. This was a big moment for him and for the history of England.

Who Was Guthrum?

Guthrum was a powerful Viking warlord who led many raids and conquests in England during the 9th century. He was part of the "Great Heathen Army," a large group of Viking warriors who arrived in England in 865 AD. This army aimed to conquer and settle the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.

Viking Raids and Settlements

The Vikings, including Guthrum's forces, attacked many parts of England. They captured important cities and established their own rule. Guthrum's goal was to create a permanent Viking kingdom in England.

• The Vikings were skilled warriors and sailors.
• They used longships to travel across the sea and up rivers.
• They often raided monasteries and towns for treasure.

Conflict with Alfred the Great

Guthrum's biggest rival was Alfred the Great, the King of Wessex. Wessex was the last remaining Anglo-Saxon kingdom that had not fallen to the Vikings.

The Battle of Edington

In 878, Guthrum launched a surprise attack on Alfred. Alfred had to hide in the marshes of Athelney. However, Alfred gathered his forces and fought back.

• Alfred's army met Guthrum's army at the Battle of Edington.
• This battle was a major turning point.
• Alfred's forces won a decisive victory against the Vikings.

The Treaty of Wedmore

After his defeat, Guthrum was forced to make peace with Alfred. This led to the famous Treaty of Wedmore.

• The treaty divided England into two main parts.
• One part was ruled by the Anglo-Saxons (Alfred's kingdom).
• The other part was the Danelaw, ruled by the Danes.
• A key part of the treaty was Guthrum's conversion to Christianity.

Guthrum's Conversion

As part of the peace treaty, Guthrum agreed to be baptized as a Christian. King Alfred himself was his godfather.

• Guthrum took the Christian name Æthelstan.
• This event was very important for peace between the Anglo-Saxons and the Danes.
• It also helped spread Christianity among the Vikings in England.

Life in the Danelaw

After the treaty, Guthrum ruled as King of East Anglia, a part of the Danelaw. He kept his promise to Alfred and lived peacefully.

• The Danelaw had its own laws and customs, which were different from Anglo-Saxon laws.
• Many Danes settled in this area, farming and building communities.
• Guthrum ruled until his death around 890 AD.

Legacy of Guthrum

Guthrum's story shows how Vikings changed from raiders to settlers and rulers. His peace with Alfred the Great helped shape the future of England.

• He helped establish the Danelaw, a unique part of English history.
• His conversion to Christianity was a significant cultural event.
• His actions contributed to the blending of Anglo-Saxon and Norse cultures in England.

Images for kids

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  Coin of King Halfdan, London 872

See also

In Spanish: Guthrum I de Estanglia para niños