BattlefieldsBattle of Wilton 871
Early Medieval

Battle of Wilton 871

871
Wiltshire, England
Also known as: Alfred defeated at Wilton · Final battle of the 871 campaign
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Wiltshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Wessex (Alfred)
Forces
Danish Great Army
VS
Victor
Danes
Forces
West Saxon army
Outcome
Alfred defeated at Wilton despite feigning retreat successfully; Wessex purchased peace with tribute
The Battle

History & Significance

At Wilton Alfred feigned retreat to lure the Danes out but was then overwhelmed by their numbers. This ended the great campaign of 871 with Wessex exhausted. Alfred bought peace with tribute, accepting Danish control of Mercia and a ceasefire. In nine engagements that year the English had won two battles but lost the campaign.

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