King Edward the Martyr of England Timeline 962-978

Edward the Martyr was born to King Edgar and his first wife, Aethelflaed. The exact date of Edward’s birth if not known.

Edward’s mother, Aethelflaed was either divorced or died.

Edward’s father, King Edgar married Aelfthryth, daughter of the Ealdorman of Devon.

Edward’s half-brother Edmund was born to Edgar and Aelfthryth.

Edward’s half-brother, Aethelred was born to Edgar and Aelfthryth.

Edward’s half-brother, Edmund, died.

Edgar and his wife Aelfthryth were crowned at Bath by Dunstan, Archbishop of Canterbury. This was likely a second coronation and celebration of Edgar’s rule.

King Edgar received the submission of eight kings of the North, including the Kings of Scotland and Strathclyde at Chester thus strengthening his position.

Edgar died at Winchester. Edward was nominated by his father to become King. This was supported by Archbishop of Canterbury, Dunstan but many nobles and the dowager Queen believed that Edgar’s younger son, Aethelred was the rightful King.

Edward was crowned by Archbishop Dunstan at Kingston upon Thames

The dowager Queen and her faction continued to work against Edward.

Edward rode to Corfe Castle to pay his half-brother and stepmother a visit. As it was a family visit he was only escorted by a small retinue. He was met at the gates to the castle by a group of Aelfthryth’s retainers. Before he could dismount, Edward was stabbed several times and died very quickly. He was succeeded by his half-brother Aethelred who became known as the Unready.