Ælfgar, Earl of Mercia

unknown - c. 1062

House: Leofricides

Titles: Earl of Mercia, Earl of East Anglia

Ælfgar, the son of Leofric, Earl of Mercia, and Godgifu (Lady Godiva), succeeded his father’s title and responsibilities upon the latter’s death in 1057. He was also titled Earl of East Anglia and experienced a period of exile. His daughter’s first marriage made him the father-in-law to Welsh king Gruffydd ap Llywelyn. After Ælfgar’s death, his daughter became a widow and married English King Harold.

During his exile in 1055, Ælfgar raised a fleet in Ireland and allied with Welsh King Gruffydd against King Edward. They attacked Hereford, leading to significant destruction and casualties. King Edward’s response, led by Earl Harold, forced Ælfgar and Gruffydd to flee, but Ælfgar was later reinstated through diplomatic means.

Notable events

1051
Benefited from the exile of Earl Godwin of Wessex, gaining the Earldom of East Anglia.
1053
Regained the earldom of East Anglia after Earl Godwin's death and Harold's succession as Earl of Wessex.
1055
Exiled and raised a fleet in Ireland, forming an alliance with Welsh King Gruffydd.
24 October 1055
Attacked Hereford with Gruffydd, leading to the town's devastation.
1055
Fled to south Wales after Earl Harold was put in charge of King Edward's army.
1055
Reinstated to his titles after diplomatic resolution.
Early 1061
Son Burgheard died while returning from Rome, leading Ælfgar to endow lands to Reims Abbey.
c. 1062
Death occurred before the Battle of Hastings.

Other details

Death: Died around 1062, before the Battle of Hastings. Burial place is not specified.

Children: At least four, including Burgheard (deceased early 1061), and a daughter married to Gruffydd ap Llywelyn and later to King Harold.

Marriages: Married to Ælgifu, sister of William Malet and possible relative of Ælgifu of Northampton.

Parents: Son of Leofric, Earl of Mercia, and Godgifu (Lady Godiva).

Sources

Compiled from various 3rd hand sources

https://en.wikipedia.org/