Cenred

Cenred was a king of Mercia, an Anglo-Saxon kingdom in what is now the Midlands of England. His reign is generally dated from 704 to 709. He succeeded his relative, Æthelred, who had abdicated to become a monk. Little is known about Cenred's early life or his accession to the throne.

Historical records concerning Cenred's reign are sparse. He is mentioned in some charters and chronicles, but these offer limited detail about his activities or policies. It is believed that during his rule, Mercia continued to experience a period of relative stability. There is no indication of significant warfare or major internal strife during this time.

Cenred's reign is notable for his eventual abdication. Like his predecessor Æthelred, Cenred also chose to leave the throne to enter religious life. He abdicated in 709 and is understood to have travelled to Rome, where he may have become a monk. His successor was Ceolred, who was likely a relative. The precise reasons for Cenred's abdication are not clearly documented, but it reflects a trend among some Anglo-Saxon rulers of the period to seek spiritual rewards later in life. His brief rule did not significantly alter the political landscape of Mercia.