Eadhild facts for kids

Eadhild was an English princess who lived a long time ago. She was the second wife of a powerful French leader named Hugh the Great. Her father was Edward the Elder, who was the King of the Anglo-Saxons. Her mother was Ælfflæd. Eadhild passed away in the year 937.

A Royal Marriage for Eadhild

In the year 926, Eadhild's half-brother, King Æthelstan, received a special visit. This visit was from his cousin, Adelolf, who was the Count of Boulogne. Adelolf came on behalf of Hugh the Great. Hugh wanted to marry Eadhild.

King Æthelstan agreed to this marriage. In return, Hugh sent many amazing gifts and important items. These gifts showed how much Hugh valued this marriage.

Amazing Gifts for the King

A writer named William of Malmesbury wrote about the incredible gifts Hugh sent. These included:

• Sweet-smelling spices
• Shiny jewels
• Many fast horses
• A fancy vase made of onyx stone
• A crown made of solid gold
• The sword of Constantine the Great, a famous Roman emperor
• Charlemagne's lance, a spear from another great emperor
• A piece of the Crown of Thorns, which is very important in Christian history

These gifts were not just presents. They were also a way to show respect and build strong connections between the two powerful families.

Family Connections and Politics

Eadhild had a full sister named Eadgifu. Eadgifu was married to Charles the Simple, who used to be the king of the West Franks but had lost his throne.

Hugh the Great was a very powerful person in France. He could have become king himself one day. Eadgifu might have wanted her sister Eadhild to marry Hugh. This marriage could have helped to stop Hugh from becoming too friendly with another powerful leader, Count Herbert of Vermandois. It was a way to keep peace and balance power in the region.

Eadhild's Later Life

Eadhild and Hugh the Great did not have any children together. Eadhild died in 937.