Sigered

Sigered (also spelled Sigeræd or Sigræd) was an obscure King of Kent in the late 8th century. His reign falls within a poorly documented period of Kentish history, following the death of King Ecgberht II and before the more firm establishment of Mercian control.

Historical sources concerning Sigered are limited, primarily consisting of charters. These charters suggest that he held some degree of authority in Kent, but often under the overlordship of the Mercian kings, particularly Coenwulf. His exact relationship to previous Kentish rulers is uncertain.

The charters associated with Sigered typically grant land or privileges in exchange for payment or recognition of overlordship. These documents are crucial for understanding the political landscape of Kent during this period. The presence of both Sigered's name and the names of Mercian kings on these charters underscores the complex relationship between Kent and Mercia.

The end of Sigered's reign is as unclear as its beginning. By the early 9th century, Mercian influence in Kent had become significantly more dominant, effectively ending the independent Kentish kingdom. He is believed to have been deposed or replaced by a Mercian appointee, possibly Cuthred of Kent. His fate after losing power is unknown.

Because of the scarcity of historical records, our knowledge of Sigered remains fragmented and incomplete, making a comprehensive understanding of his reign difficult.