about the book
Speculation on the Late Anglo-Saxon Kings of Lindsey
Speculation on the Late Anglo-Saxon Kings of Lindsey discusses one of the obscure moments in the history of early England. At the start of the 7th century, modern day England was made up of many small independent kingdoms, each with their own kings vying for territory and ensuring continuation of their dynasty. One such kingdom was Lindsey – a kingdom often recorded in the early sources while none of the kings themselves leave any written trace.
The Anglian Collection of royal genealogies contains the main information concerning the rulers of Lindsey, enumerating a series of monarchs. Although the initial names are generally considered to be mythical, the subsequent ones are thought to be historical figures. But other than their names, history tells us practically nothing about their reigns, which provide a large blank in the history of early medieval Britain.
Key battles between East Anglia, Northumbria and Mercia all took place within Lindsey’s borders. Where were its kings?
The lineage likely survived into the 7th century but was probably ended by 670 AD — absorbed by Mercian dominance.
Using incident investigation techniques, every piece of information from the period is mapped into timelines to consider the possibilities.
This book attempts to fill that gap. Adopting a methodical and logical approach, Steve Potts brings together all the evidence that can be found, be it historical documents, archaeological evidence or contemporary events, and creates a more detailed portrait of the royal connections of Lindsey. Placing these kings in the wider context of known rulers of the time, including Mercia, Northumbira and East Anglia, the book offers a timeline that fits the story of Lindsey with key historical events.
Instead of drawing conclusive statements, the work is open to informed guesses, inviting readers to think of a variety of possibilities when evidence is missing. It explores some major questions: What were the roles of the kings of Lindsey in the regional conflicts? What was the relationship with mightier neighbors? And what were the conditions which caused the cessation of their lineage in the late 7th century?
Key Questions Explored
What part did the kings of Lindsey play?
Key battles between East Anglia, Northumbria and Mercia all took place within Lindsey's borders. Where were its kings?
When did the lineage end?
The lineage likely survived into the 7th century but was probably ended by 670 AD — absorbed by Mercian dominance.
When did the lineage end?
The lineage likely survived into the 7th century but was probably ended by 670 AD — absorbed by Mercian dominance.