Eardwulf

Eardwulf, also known as Eadwulf, was a medieval English king who ruled from 858 to 859. He was the son of King Æthelwulf of Wessex and succeeded his brother Æthelstan. Eardwulf's reign was marked by internal strife and external threats. His brother Æthelberht, who had been exiled, returned and challenged Eardwulf's rule. This internal conflict weakened the kingdom, allowing Viking raids to increase. Eardwulf's reign was short and tumultuous, and he was eventually deposed and exiled. His reign ended in 859, and he was succeeded by his brother Æthelberht. Eardwulf's brief rule is often overshadowed by the more famous reigns of his father and brother, but it was a significant period in the history of Wessex.