Database: Guthrum

Guthrum was one of the most prominent leaders of the Great Heathen Army. After taking land in Mercia and Northumbria. Guthrum turned his ambitions to Wessex, where he became King Aelfred's most persistent enemy.

A skillful tactician as well as a fearsome warrior in his own right, Guthrum exemplified the hit-and-run, guerilla warfare mentality of the invaders, which allowed them to win so many early victories against the slower, more disorganized Anglo-Saxon fyrds. Through a combination of politicking, ransom, and surprise attacks, Guthrum kept his enemies divided while bit by bit, he conquered their lands.