BattlefieldsAethelwold Revolt at Badbury and Danish Backing 900
Early Medieval

Aethelwold Revolt at Badbury and Danish Backing 900

900
Dorset, England
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Dorset, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Aethelwold
Forces
Aethelwold's rebel band c.500–1,000 with Danish backing.
VS
Victor
Edward the Elder
Forces
Edward's forces c.1,000–2,000
Outcome
Aethelwold initially seized Wimborne and Badbury; forced to flee north when Edward mobilised; established himself in Northumbria with Danish support
The Battle

History & Significance

Alfred's nephew Aethelwold seized Wimborne in 899 and fled to Northumbria to gain Danish backing for his claim to the West Saxon throne. In 901 he crossed to East Anglia and led Danish forces raiding into Mercia and northern Wessex. King Edward the Elder pursued and inflicted the Battle of the Holme in 902. The dynastic challenge exploited Danish military power and threatened the political settlement Alfred had achieved.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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