Ethelwulfs

Ethelwulf was an Anglo-Saxon king of Wessex who reigned from approximately 839 to 858 AD. He was the son of King Egbert of Wessex and was born around 800 AD. Ethelwulf's reign was marked by his strong alliance with the Church and his ongoing struggles against Viking raids. He was a devout Christian and is known for his pilgrimage to Rome in 855 AD, accompanied by his youngest son, Alfred, who would later become King Alfred the Great.

During his time as king, Ethelwulf faced significant military challenges. The Vikings, a constant threat to the British Isles, launched numerous raids on the coasts of Wessex. Ethelwulf successfully defended his kingdom against these incursions, often with the support of his people. He also established a strong relationship with the Archbishop of Canterbury, strengthening the influence of the Church within his kingdom.

Ethelwulf had at least five sons and several daughters from two marriages. His first wife was Osburh, with whom he had his famous sons, Athelstan, Aethelbald, Aethelberht, Aethelred, and Alfred. After Osburh's death, Ethelwulf married Judith of West Francia, daughter of the Western Frankish king Charles the Bald. This marriage was politically significant and helped to forge alliances between Wessex and the Frankish kingdoms. Ethelwulf died in 858 AD, and his kingdom passed to his sons, who continued to defend and rule Wessex in the face of further Viking attacks.