Eardwulf

Eardwulf (also spelled Eardulf) was King of Northumbria twice: first from 796 to 806, and again briefly in 808 until sometime after 810. His reign was marked by considerable instability and violence within the Northumbrian kingdom.

Eardwulf claimed descent from a member of the royal family named Eadulf, though the veracity of this claim is debated among historians. He rose to prominence as a thegn and was likely involved in the murder of King Æthelred I in 796. Despite this, he succeeded Æthelred to the throne on 14 May 796.

His reign was characterized by persistent challenges to his authority. He faced numerous rebellions and plots against him, requiring him to constantly exert his power through military force. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle records instances of conflict and the slaying of various Northumbrian leaders during his tenure.

In 806, Eardwulf was overthrown, though the circumstances of his deposition are unclear. He fled into exile, seeking refuge first with Charlemagne, King of the Franks, and then with Pope Leo III in Rome.

In 808, likely with Frankish and papal support, Eardwulf regained the Northumbrian throne. However, his second reign was short-lived and poorly documented. His subsequent fate is not definitively known, but historical sources suggest he remained king until sometime after 810. The date and circumstances of his death are unrecorded. Eardwulf's reign is significant for highlighting the political instability and violence that plagued Northumbria during the late 8th and early 9th centuries.