Godwin, Earl of Wessex

Godwin of Wessex was an Anglo-Saxon nobleman who rose to prominence under King Cnut the Great, becoming the first Earl of Wessex around 1020. His father was likely Wulfnoth Cild, a thegn of Sussex. Godwin's early allegiance to Æthelstan, Æthelred the Unready's son, helped him gain an estate in Compton, Sussex. His marriage to Gytha, sister of the Danish earl Ulf, further solidified his status.

After Cnut's death in 1035, Godwin supported Harthacnut's claim to the English throne. The controversy surrounding the blinding and death of Alfred Ætheling affected his reputation, but he maintained his influence by backing Harthacnut and later Edward the Confessor. In 1045, his daughter Edith married Edward, strengthening his family's ties to the throne. Godwin opposed the increasing Norman influence at Edward's court, leading to his temporary exile in 1051.

Godwin returned to England in 1052 with armed support, compelling Edward to restore his earldom. His family continued to gain power, with his son Harold succeeding him as Earl of Wessex. The House of Godwin appeared poised to dominate English politics, with Harold eventually becoming king in 1066. However, the Norman Conquest later that year ended their ascendancy.

Godwin died on 15 April 1053 after collapsing at a royal banquet, likely due to a stroke. His son Harold succeeded him as Earl of Wessex.