Write an article about Alfred the Great and his importance to England.
Alfred the Great was a king who ruled for nearly 30 years. He ruled over the West Saxons and the Anglo-Saxons. Alfred the Great enacted lasting administrative and military reforms and is well-known for his interactions with Vikings occupying England. He was able to strike a deal with the Vikings following a military victory in 878 known as the Battle of Edington. This deal divided the territory between the two factions. Alfred was known as a merciful ruler who encouraged education to be conducted in English instead of Latin. Alfred is one of England's most notable monarchs and left a legacy full of innovation.