Ancient History

Canute was a Viking king who ruled the first truly unified England. He came to power in 1016 AD, defeating the Anglo-Saxon king Aethelred. A year later, Canute married Aethelred’s widow and fathered 2 children with her. Being a Viking ruler, Canute kept the vikings from invading England and brought about a time of peace and prosperity.

Canute was a devote Christian and allowed Christianity to flourish during his reign. He was attributed as having many new churches built as a way to atone for the evils done by his forefathers. He also brought beautiful artwork to the forefront of English society of the time, and kept the English justice system in place.

Canute died in 1035 at the age of 40, leaving his united kingdom in the hands of his sons. Harold, a son from an English mistress, became king for only five years before his death. That left his youngest son, Harthacnut, to rule as king. Harthacnut died after only two years of rule and was only known for the impossible taxes he had imposed on his people.

Because none of Canute’s heirs had children of their own, the country was passed on to the oldest child of Canute’s wife from her first husband, Aethelred. He would come to be known throughout history as Edward the Confessor.