Osbald of Northumbria facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Osbald |
|
|---|---|
| King of Northumbria | |
| Reign | 796 |
| Predecessor | Æthelred I |
| Successor | Eardwulf |
| Died | 799 |
Osbald was a king of Northumbria, a powerful kingdom in ancient Britain. He ruled for a short time in the year 796. Osbald was a friend of Alcuin, an important bishop from York. Alcuin often sent Osbald letters with advice.
Contents
Osbald's Early Life and Character
Osbald was known for his lifestyle. In 793, Alcuin wrote letters to Osbald. He encouraged Osbald to change his ways. Alcuin mentioned Osbald's fancy clothes and his pagan hair style. He also warned him that "Luxury in emperors means poverty for the people." This meant that a king who spent too much money could make his people poor.
Becoming King of Northumbria
Osbald became king of Northumbria in 796. This was a challenging time for the kingdom. Northumbria was facing many problems and was not very stable. Osbald's rule lasted for only 27 days. After this short time, his royal helpers left him. The people also stopped supporting him.
Life in Exile
After losing his throne, Osbald went into exile. He first went to Lindisfarne, an island known for its monastery. While he was there, Alcuin wrote to him again. Alcuin suggested that Osbald should become a knight. Osbald did not agree to this idea.
Alcuin sent another letter to Osbald. In this letter, Alcuin expressed his disappointment. He wrote:
My dear friend Osbald ... I am disappointed in you for not taking my advice. I urged you in my letter that you should give up this way of life. Do not add sin to sin by ruining your country. Think how much trouble has been caused through you and your family.
Soon after, Osbald traveled to Pictland with his friends. Pictland was a kingdom in what is now Scotland. There, Caustantín, the King of the Picts, gave him a safe place to stay.
Places Named After Osbald
Osbald's name is still remembered in a few places. Two areas in and around Northumbria are named after him:
- Osbaldeston, Blackburn
- Osbaldwick, York
Death
Osbald died in the year 799. He was buried in an unmarked grave. His burial place was at York Minster, a famous cathedral in York.
