The podcast delves into Sussex's history post-Cædwalla's death, detailing periods of obscurity and insights. It covers the spread of Christianity in Sussex, political transitions, and South Saxons' alliances. The turbulent history of Sussex, from independence struggles to Norse raids, showcases its importance in Anglo-Saxon England.
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Quick takeaways
Sussex struggled to regain independence after Cadwala's death in 688.
Norse raiding and Alfred's kingdom led to Sussex losing independence by 825.
Deep dives
Rebuilding and Downfall of Sussex Kingdom
Following Cadwala's death in 688, Sussex's independence was not restored. Northhelm succeeded Cadwala, with limited historical evidence. Nanna, potentially a kinsman of King Ina of Wessex, collaborated with Ina in fighting King Geraint. Another king, Wat, possibly of the Hestingas, aided by South Saxon politics.
Christianization Efforts in Sussex
In attempts to Christianize Sussex, Nanna established the Bishopric of Selzy in 705. Progress was slow, as evidenced by the murder of Laofwin by pagan Saxons. Documented in 717, Nanna's rule ceased, succeeded by Athelstan and Athelbert, indicating possible unrest and sub-kingdom structures.
Mercian Supremacy and Sussex's Incorporation into Wessex
In 771, Offa of Mercia asserted dominance over Sussex. Mercian rule continued until Offa's death in 792, leading to Sussex's regained independence. By 825, Sussex pledged loyalty to Egbert of Wessex, eventually becoming part of Wessex. Norse raiding and Alfred's kingdom resulted in Sussex's loss of independence.
Following Cædwalla’s death in 688 Sussex seemingly did not regain its independence. As with the early history of Sussex, the kingdom’s history post-688 is again one of long stretches of obscurity occasionally broken by flashes of insight.