Translates Latin books into English
He now began earnestly the work of making English books for his people. He translated a book containing a history of the world, and an account of two voyages to the north seas. He then put into English the famous book Bede's History of England. A book on religion by Pope Gregory the Great, and another of wise sayings, were soon after translated into English. In this way Alfred helped his people to learn to read, and to read good books. The English people have saved these works that their children for many generations to come might learn good things from them. Now, however, they must be translated into the English of our day before most of us can read them, for our language has changed greatly since Alfred's time.
Alfred also helped his people to learn new trades, and to do their work better in those trades they already knew. He had skilled workers from other countries come to England to help his people.
King Alfred's purpose
Alfred was a true and good man. He loved his home and his people. He said: "To sum up all, it has ever been my desire to live worthily while I was alive, and after my death to leave to those that should come after me my memory in good works."
His time well-ordered
The daily life of the king was orderly. The twenty-four hours were divided into three parts; eight hours were given to the business of the people (governing), eight hours to study and prayer, and eight hours to exercise and rest. "As he had no clock, he measured out his time by burning candles, each of which lasted for four hours. In order that the candles might burn evenly and mark the time properly, he enclosed them in lanterns of thin horn" which he had invented.
Alfred the Great
Good King Alfred died in 901. A thousand years later the English raised a statue to him at Winchester. Because of his many good works he is called "Alfred the Great." He is one of the noblest men in all history.