Who Was the First King of England?

Many consider Athelstan (or Æthelstan) to be the first king of England.

While the history of England is complex, Athelstan is often recognized as the first king to rule over a unified England. Prior to his reign, England was divided into several Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. His rule marked a significant turning point towards the unified England we know today.

Here's a breakdown:

• Before Athelstan: England consisted of multiple kingdoms, including Wessex, Mercia, Northumbria, and East Anglia.
• Athelstan's Achievements: Athelstan (924-939 AD) consolidated power over these various kingdoms through conquest and diplomacy.
• Unified Rule: He was the first king to effectively rule over the whole of England.
• Legacy: He is often credited with laying the foundations for the English state, making him a pivotal figure in English history.

Therefore, when we talk about the first king to rule over the whole of England, Athelstan is the most widely recognized figure. He accomplished what no other king before him had managed - unifying the different Anglo-Saxon kingdoms under one crown.