Edward the Elder was an Anglo-Saxon king who ruled from 899 to 924 AD. He was the son of Alfred the Great and became king after his father's death. Edward is known for his efforts to consolidate and expand the kingdom of Wessex and for his military campaigns against the Viking invaders. During his reign, Edward the Elder strengthened the defenses of his kingdom and worked to unify the various Anglo-Saxon territories. He established a network of fortified towns called burhs, which helped protect against Viking raids. His leadership laid the groundwork for the future unification of England.