Edmund II of England

Reign: 1016 – 1016
Life: 988–1016

Edmund reign was spent fighting against a Danish invasion led by Cnut. Edmund was born sometime between 990 and 993 to King Æthelred the Unready. Little is known about Edmund life before 1015; the first concrete evidence of his agency was from the late 1000s and he seems to have been close with his brother Æthelstan. Æthelstan died in June 1014 and in his will Edmund was the main beneficiary, receiving the sword of Offa and estates in the Danelaw.

During Edmund II of England's reign, Olof Skötkonung ruled Sweden, Henry II, Holy Roman Emperor ruled Holy Roman Empire, and Malcolm II of Scotland ruled Scotland.

Want to learn more? Further reading

A Short History of England by Simon Jenkins

Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.

The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.

By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. See our Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe any time.

From the library

Go deeper on Edmund II of England

Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

A Short History of England

Simon Jenkins

A brisk, readable survey of English history from the Romans to the present.

Find this book on Amazon