The Danelaw originated in the conquest and occupation of large parts of eastern and northern England by Danish Vikings in the late ninth century. The term applies to the areas in which English kings allowed the Danes to keep their own laws following the tenth-century English conquest in return for the Danish settlers' loyalty to the English crown.

Oct 22, 2022 · Danelaw was created by treaties signed between Alfred the Great of Wessex, and the Viking warlord Guthrum, following Alfred's victory at the Battle of Edington in 878. Let's take a look at what led up to this point.

Jan 30, 2025 · Danelaw, the northern, central, and eastern region of Anglo-Saxon England colonized by invading Danish armies in the late 9th century.

Viking laws and customs now held sway in a territory that spanned from London in the south, through the Midlands and up to the north of the country. The area would later become known as Danelaw, deriving its name from the Old English Dena lagu meaning 'Danes’ law'.

The Viking army under Ivar the Boneless and Halfdan Ragnarsson first occupied Nottingham in 868 and subsequently set up winter quarters there. Burgred and his West Saxon allies laid siege, but made peace and allowed the Vikings to retreat after little serious fighting in 869.

Nov 16, 2021 · The Danelaw is a term used to describe both a region under Danish law and a physical place – but which is most accurate? Dr Ben Raffield of the University of Uppsala unpicks the myths surrounding this Viking ‘realm’ in England…

A selection of papers from the 13th Viking Congress focusing on the northern, central, and eastern regions of Anglo-Saxon England colonised by invading Danish a...

Jun 23, 2015 · In The Danelaw, where the Vikings settled and started to merge with the English, there had to quickly develop a form of language which everyone could speak and understand, so that people could communicate with each other easily in …

Aug 16, 2022 · Comprising roughly 15 modern-day English counties, the Danelaw became not only a proto-Viking colony but has left a deep imprint on this part of England to this day. The Northern half of England plays a great role in what historians and …

Oct 21, 2024 · The Danelaw, a term for Viking-controlled areas, was more than just a territorial divide. It deeply influenced England’s culture and laws, shaping the country for centuries. We will explore the Danelaw’s origins, its impact on England, and how Viking rule shaped its legal, social, and cultural landscape.