What could be said to classify Alfred the Great as the first British nation builder?

A law code arguably was one of the crucial founding steps of a nation. By creating a universal legal system the monarch creates a national identity, something every citizen could identify with. it creates a sense of belonging and creates borders that delineates one group of people from another. England became different from Frankia, separate and distinct. A law code also helps cement the monarch's power, and by creating one they are able to extend their reach over crime and punishment. By bringing such matters under their jurisdication they can control more aspects of life. The monarchy thus becomes involved in the every day fabric of life important to every person regardless of class. A law code also demonstrates learning and intellectual rigour, a sign that the monarchs court was wealthy and sophisticated. Extending legality across his territory highlights his reach and control and classifies Alfred the Great as a nation builder.