On this day in 1066 Edgar the Ætheling became King!

History! On this day in 1066, Edgar the Ætheling was pronounced King of England, indeed, he was the last in the line of Saxon Kings of England, being the last male descendant in direct line from Edmund Ironside (Edmund II). Image above thanks to BBC.

Although he was never crowned, Edgar was King until 10th December 1066, when William the Bastard (as he was known in those days) took him into custody. Indeed, as natural heir, Edgar should have been King since January 1066, but he was considered too young then, and war was being faced. Instead, Harold Godwinson was chosen as King by the Witenagemot; the Council of the Anglo-Saxon Kings of England that had existed for over 400 years.

Edgar escaped capture in 1068, and led a very eventful life, living into his 70s. Looking him up is well worth the read; eg see the English Monarchs website.