Sighere of Essex facts for kids

Sighere was a king of the Kingdom of Essex, an old Anglo-Saxon kingdom in England. He ruled at the same time as his cousin, Sæbbi. They shared power from about 663 or 664 AD until around 688 AD.

Sighere was the son of Sigeberht Sæwarding. This was likely Sigeberht the Good, who was also a king of Essex, but it might have been Sigeberht the Little. Sighere and Sæbbi were cousins of the king who ruled before them, Swithelm.

Ruling Essex Together

Sighere and Sæbbi ruled Essex as joint kings. This meant they both held the title and power at the same time. However, they had very different beliefs, which caused problems.

Religious Differences

During their rule, there was a big difference in their religious beliefs. Sighere chose to go back to the old pagan religion, which worshipped many gods. On the other hand, Sæbbi remained a Christian. This difference in faith led to a strong rivalry between the two kings.

Alliances and Rivalry

Because of their rivalry, Sighere and Sæbbi looked for help from other powerful kingdoms. Sighere made friends with the kingdom of Wessex. Sæbbi, however, allied himself with Mercia, a very strong kingdom at the time.

This rivalry made King Wulfhere of Mercia very powerful in Essex. He became the "overlord" of Essex, meaning he had control over both Sighere and Sæbbi. To make his power stronger, King Wulfhere arranged for Sighere to marry his niece, Osgyth. She was the daughter of Frithuwold, who was a sub-king in Surrey under Mercia.

Return to Christianity

King Wulfhere also wanted the people of Essex to become Christian again. He sent Jaruman, a bishop from Mercia, to help convert the people back to Christianity.

In 673 AD, Sighere and Osgyth separated. Osgyth then went to seek protection from Bishop Beaduwine of North Elmham.

End of Sighere's Rule

Sighere died around 688 AD. After his death, his cousin Sæbbi became the sole ruler of Essex. Sæbbi ruled alone for many more years.