Sigeberht of Wessex facts for kids

Sigeberht (lived around 757) was an important nobleman from Wessex, a powerful kingdom in early England. He was the King of Wessex for a short time, from 756 to 757.

Sigeberht's Time as King

Sigeberht was a prince, also known as an atheling, in Wessex. He became king in 756, taking over from Cuthred. However, Sigeberht's rule did not last long. After about a year, he was accused of not ruling fairly by the Witan. The Witan was a council of important leaders and wise men in the kingdom.

This council, led by Cynewulf, decided to remove Sigeberht from power. They then chose Cynewulf to become the new king of Wessex.

After Losing the Throne

Even though he was no longer king, Sigeberht was allowed to keep control of Hampshire, a region in England. He had the support of a man named Cumbra there. However, Sigeberht later killed Cumbra. Because of this, Sigeberht was forced to leave Hampshire.

Sigeberht ended up wandering alone in a large forest. He was eventually killed by a herdsman. The herdsman killed Sigeberht to get revenge for Cumbra's death.

A Story of Revenge

The events involving Sigeberht and Cynewulf became part of a famous story. About 30 years later, King Cynewulf was killed by Cyneheard. Cyneheard was Sigeberht's brother. This act was likely done as revenge for Sigeberht's death, or perhaps because Cyneheard was about to be sent away from Wessex.