BattlefieldsBattle of the Holme (902)
Early Medieval

Battle of the Holme (902)

902
Cambridgeshire, England
Also known as: Battle of Holme · Battle at Holme
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Cambridgeshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Kentish army (strategic)
Forces
East Anglian Danes c.2,000–4,000.
VS
Victor
East Anglian Danes (tactical)
Forces
Kentish army c.2,000–3,500
Outcome
Both sides suffered heavy losses; Aethelwold the rebel killed
The Battle

History & Significance

Edward the Elder's cousin Aethelwold, who had contested the throne with Danish support, was killed at the Battle of the Holme leading a Danish army from East Anglia against the Kentish forces. Though the Danes technically held the field, Aethelwold's death removed the greatest dynastic threat to Edward's rule and allowed the reconquest to proceed. The battle shows the complexity of Danelaw politics, where English claimants used Danish armies.

Casualties & Losses

Aethelwold killed; Eohric king of East Anglia killed; heavy losses on both sides

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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