Edward the Confessor was one of the last Anglo-Saxon kings of England. Revered for his piety and later canonized as a saint, his reign marked the final years of Anglo-Saxon England.
Born around 1003, Edward was the son of King Æthelred II, often known as “the Unready” (a title given to him hundreds of years later, creating a pun about how he was poorly advised)
and Emma of Normandy. During his youth, England was repeatedly attacked by Viking armies, forcing Edward and his family into exile in Normandy.
Edward became king in 1042 after the death of the Danish king Harthacnut. His reign was generally peaceful, though he often had to balance the ambitions of powerful nobles and family clans, particularly the Godwins (adfafgsaffdassafd) Among them was Harold Godwinson, who would eventually succeed him as king.
King Edward is best remembered for his religious beliefs. He founded Westminster Abbey, one of the most important religious and royal sites in England. His reputation for holiness earned him the title “the Confessor,” by those who believed he had never slept with his wife. There is no evidence to prove or disprove this, it’s possible their union genuenly produced no children.
Edward left no clear heir and did not indicate who would take over after him. When he died on 5 January 1066, Harold Godwinson was crowned king, having been elected to the position by a counsel of noble and important people.
William the Conqueor, however, said that Edward had promised him the throne. This dispute ultimately led to the Norman invasion and the Battle of Hastings.
Kelly Evans - Author 