Edgar of England facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Edgar the Peaceful |
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| King of England | |
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| Reign | 1 October 959 – 8 July 975 |
| Predecessor | Edwy |
| Successor | Edward the Martyr |
| Born | 943 Wessex England |
| Died | 8 July 975 |
| Burial | Glastonbury Abbey, England |
| Father | Edmund I |
| Mother | Elgiva |
King Edgar (born around 942, died July 8, 975) was a powerful English king. He was the younger son of King Edmund I of England. People called him "the Peaceable." But he was actually a very strong ruler, even more so than his older brother, Edwy.
In 958, Edgar took control of the kingdoms of Northumbria and Mercia from Edwy. Nobles in Mercia recognized Edgar as king in 958. He officially became king of all England in October 959, after Edwy died. Right away, Edgar brought Dunstan back from exile. Dunstan became an important church leader, first as Bishop of Worcester, then of London, and finally Archbishop of Canterbury.
Edgar is seen as a Saint by the Catholic church.
Becoming King of England
Edgar's older brother, Edwy, was king before him. However, Edwy was not very popular with everyone. In 958, important nobles in the northern parts of England decided they wanted Edgar to be their king instead.
This meant Edgar ruled over Northumbria and Mercia. When King Edwy died in 959, Edgar then became the king of all England. He was a very effective ruler and brought a lot of peace and order to the country.
Edgar's Reign and Legacy
King Edgar's time as ruler is often called a "golden age" for England. He worked hard to unite the different parts of the kingdom. He also made sure that laws were fair and that justice was carried out.
One of his biggest achievements was working closely with the Church. He supported important church leaders like Saint Dunstan. Together, they helped to improve monasteries and religious life in England. This period saw many new churches and religious buildings being built or repaired.
Edgar was also known for his strong army and navy. This helped to protect England from attacks by Vikings and other invaders. He made sure England was a respected and powerful kingdom.
| Preceded by Edwy |
King of England 959–975 |
Succeeded by Edward the Martyr |
Images for kids
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A coin of Edgar, made in Winchcombe in Gloucestershire (around 973–975).
See also
In Spanish: Edgar el Pacífico para niños
