Ecgberhts

Ecgberhts were a group of Anglo-Saxon kings who ruled the Kingdom of Kent in the 7th and 8th centuries. The name "Ecgberht" is derived from Old English, meaning "noble counsel." The first known Ecgberht was Ecgberht I, who ruled from 664 to 673. He was a member of the Ecgfrith dynasty and succeeded his brother Eadbald. Ecgberht I is notable for his alliance with the Mercian king Penda, which led to the Battle of the Winwaed in 655, where Ecgberht's father, Eormenric, was killed.

Ecgberht II, also known as Ecgberht the Younger, ruled from 673 to 690. He was the son of Ecgberht I and succeeded his brother Eadric. Ecgberht II is known for his alliance with the West Saxon king Ine and his role in the Battle of Dyrham in 685, where he was defeated by the Northumbrians. Ecgberht II was succeeded by his son Eadric.

Ecgberht III, also known as Ecgberht the Martyr, ruled from 725 to 762. He was the son of Eadric and succeeded his brother Ethelred. Ecgberht III is notable for his conversion to Christianity and his role in the establishment of the Kentish Church. He was succeeded by his son Ealhmund.

The Ecgberhts were a significant dynasty in the history of Kent, and their reigns were marked by both alliances and conflicts with other Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. Their legacy includes the establishment of the Kentish Church and the development of the Kingdom of Kent.