Ceol of Wessex
Ceol also spelled Ceola or Ceolric (c. 557 — 23 July 597) was the King of Wessex from 592 until his death in 597. His reign is mostly known thanks to the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle.
| Ceol | |
|---|---|
| King of the West Saxons (more...) | |
| 21 June 592 — 23 July 597 | |
| Predecessor | Ceawlin |
| Successor | Ceolwulf |
| Born | 20 February 557 Winchester, Hampshire, Wessex |
| Died | 23 July 597 (aged 40) Winchester, Hampshire |
| Burial | 26 July 597 |
| Issue | Cynegils, King of the West Saxons |
| House | Wessex |
| Father | Cutha of Wessex |
| Religion | Paganism |
| Allegiance | Wessex |
| Service/branch | West Saxon Army |
| Years of service | 569-597 |
| Rank | Marshal (from 592) |
| Commands held | West Saxon Army (from 592) |
| Battles/wars | Revolt of 591-592 |
Early Life
Ceol was born on 20 February 557. His father was Cutha, who was the son of King Cynric and the younger brother of Ceawlin who was then crown prince.
Ceol grew up learning Archery, Science, History, and as well as learning to fight in battles. When Ceol grew older, his battle skills improved and that he quickly rose through the ranks.
Reign
Revolt against Ceawlin
In late 591, Ceol's father was killed most likely on the orders of Ceawlin who was now king as Cutha betrayed him. Ceol was mad at his uncle for killing his father, who Ceol loved so much.
Thus, Ceol raised troops against Ceawlin and started the Revolt of 591-592. Ceol and his troops captured every part of Wessex and was very close to capturing Winchester, the capital where Ceawlin surrendered and abdicated the throne in favour of Ceol.
Rule
Ceol, who was now king was crowned on 25 June 592 at Winchester Cathedral. The first thing Ceol did as king was to rebuild the kingdom as it has been destroyed during the rebellion. He ordered the reconstruction of the towns in Wessex that has been damaged.
Ceol then planned to reform the country and improve health care and education in the country. He builded more schools for young kids to be educated. He also expanded the army and the navy of Wessex. He also created peace with neighbouring countries and as well as stabilising Wessex.
Death
In 597, Ceol died due to him accidentally being poisoned by his wife. Because Ceol's son, Cynegils was too young to rule, Ceol was succeeded by his younger brother, Ceolwulf.
Legacy
Ceol has a great reputation. During his rule, Wessex became more powerful and the people would experience peace and prosperity. His son Cynegils would go on to become the King of Wessex after Ceol's younger brother, Ceolwulf died in 611. Ceol was considered a great and a solid king.