Ludeca of Mercia

Ludeca of Mercia, born in the year eight hundred, rose to prominence as a warrior and leader during a tumultuous period in Anglo-Saxon history. He ascended to the throne of Mercia in eight hundred twenty-six, following the death of King Beornwulf, who fell in battle against the rebellious East Angles. Ludeca's reign, however, was short-lived, as he too met a tragic end in eight hundred twenty-seven while attempting to avenge his predecessor's death.

The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle succinctly records Ludeca's demise, stating that he was slain alongside five of his Ealdormen. Florence of Worcester provides a more detailed account, describing how Ludeca mustered his forces to confront the East Angles, only to be met with fierce resistance. In a severe battle, he was defeated, resulting in significant losses for his troops and ultimately leading to his downfall.

Before his kingship, Ludeca was recognized as a dux under Beornwulf, with mentions in two charters from eight hundred twenty-four. His legacy includes a silver penny minted during his reign, believed to have been produced in Ipswich by a moneyer named Wærbeald. Notably, a coin discovered in two thousand sixteen established Ludeca's rule over London in eight hundred twenty-six, challenging previous assumptions about the control of the city.