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Ælfwald I of Northumbria facts for kids

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Ælfwald I
King of Northumbria
Reign 779-788
Predecessor Æthelwald Moll of Northumbria
Successor Osred II
Born between 759 and 767
Issue Ælf
Ælfwine
Father Oswulf of Northumbria
Sceat of Ælfwald of Northumbria
Sceat of Ælfwald I

Ælfwald was a king of Northumbria, an old kingdom in what is now northern England. He was born sometime between 759 and 767 AD. He ruled for about nine years, from 779 to 788. Many historians believe he was the son of King Oswulf. This would make him the grandson of King Eadberht Eating.

King Ælfwald I: A Brief Reign

How He Became King

Ælfwald became king after the previous ruler, King Æthelred, was removed from power. This happened in the year 778. It was a time when kings in Northumbria often changed.

The End of His Rule

Sadly, Ælfwald's time as king ended when he was murdered. This happened on September 23, 788. He was killed by a powerful noble called Sicga, an ealdorman. This event likely took place near a place called Chesters. Ælfwald was buried at Hexham Abbey. People there later thought of him as a saint.

What Happened Next

After Ælfwald died, his cousin Osred became the new king. Ælfwald had two sons, Ælf and Ælfwine. Sadly, they were killed in 791. This happened on the orders of King Æthelred, who had returned to power.

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