Another theory is that Edward's death may have been the result of political intrigue. As with many monarchs of the time, the threat of assassination or poisoning was always present, especially in a period of frequent power struggles. However, there is little concrete evidence to support this claim, and it is more likely that Edward’s death was due to natural causes.
The Aftermath of Edward’s Death
Edward the Elder was succeeded by his son, Æthelstan, who would go on to become one of the most significant kings in English history. Æthelstan’s reign marked the beginning of the unification of England, as he successfully consolidated the various Anglo-Saxon kingdoms and defeated the Vikings in the Battle of Brunanburh in 937, securing his position as the first King of all England.
Edward’s death marked the end of an era of intense Viking conflict and military campaigns, but it also represented the continuation of the vision his father, Alfred the Great, had for a unified Anglo-Saxon kingdom. His death, though not the result of a single dramatic event, signified the transition to a new phase in England’s history, with his son Æthelstan emerging as one of the great unifiers of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.
Conclusion
The death of Edward the Elder, while not as dramatic as other royal demises in history, was a pivotal moment in Anglo-Saxon history. His reign, marked by military victories and territorial expansion, laid the groundwork for the eventual unification of England under one ruler. Although the exact cause of his death remains uncertain, it is clear that Edward’s leadership and vision significantly shaped the future of England, and his passing paved the way for his son, Æthelstan, to rise as one of the greatest kings in English history. shutdown123