(849-899) King of the West Saxons, born Wantage, England. When he ascended the throne, 871, the Danish invaders were threatening his kingdom; after a long struggle he established Saxon supremacy. He repelled four other invasions by them (875-878), and defeated them decisively 15 years later. Alfred drew up good laws, rebuilt and founded monasteries, and encouraged learning. He translated Boethius's "Consolation of Philosophy" into Anglo-Saxon, adding much of his own; also translated Bede's "Ecclesiastical History," and the "Pastoral Rule" and "Dialogues" of Gregory the Great; and inspired the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle."
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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