Medieval Kings and Queens
Kings and queens have ruled Britain since the Romans. Some were very successful, powerful warriors in their own right, expanding their kingdom and governing their subjects with authority. But others were quite the opposite!
King Egbert of Wessex and Bretwalda
King Egbert (Ecgberht) ruled from 802-839, and is thought to be descended from the founder of Wessex, Cerdic (514-534), despite being the son of a Kentish noble. He was sent into exile by Offa, and resided at the court of Charlemagne. Upon his return, Egbert took back Wessex and conquered Mercia, Kent and Cornwall. Later, he was acknowledged as ruler of Northumbria, East Anglia and Sussex and would become known as Bretwalda, ruler of the British.