BattlefieldsViking Conquest of East Anglia and Death of Edmund
Early Medieval

Viking Conquest of East Anglia and Death of Edmund

869
Norfolk, England
Also known as: Martyrdom of St Edmund · Battle at Thetford 869
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Norfolk, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
East Anglians (Edmund)
Forces
East Anglian forces c. 2,000–3,000.
VS
Victor
Great Heathen Army (Ivar, Halfdan)
Forces
Great Heathen Army c. 4,000–6,000
Outcome
Edmund killed; East Anglia under Danish control
The Battle

History & Significance

The Great Heathen Army returned to East Anglia in 869, using it as a base for winter quarters. King Edmund fought the Danes but was defeated. He was captured and, according to tradition, martyred when he refused to renounce Christianity or share his kingdom with Ivar. He was killed — shot with arrows and beheaded — becoming the patron saint of East Anglia. Bury St Edmunds grew up around his shrine.

Casualties & Losses

Edmund martyred; East Anglian resistance crushed

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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