Burgreds

Burgred was a king of Mercia who reigned from 874 until his abdication in 879. He succeeded his brother, Burgred, to the throne. His reign was largely defined by the ongoing conflict with the Great Heathen Army of the Danes, who had been raiding and settling in England since the mid-9th century.

In 874, the Danes captured Repton, a significant Mercian royal center, and forced Burgred to flee. He sought refuge with the West Saxons, who were also engaged in a struggle against the invaders. Despite their efforts, Burgred was unable to regain control of his kingdom. In 879, he abdicated and went into exile, reportedly in Rome. He was succeeded by Ceolwulf II, who may have been a puppet ruler for the Danes, or he may have gained control of the remaining Mercian territory. Burgred's abdication marked a significant decline in Mercian independence and a further consolidation of Danish power in eastern England. Little is known about Burgred's personal life or his reign prior to the Danish invasions.