Sebbi of Essex

Sebbi was the joint king of Essex from 664 to 683 along with his brother Sighere. After Sighere died, Sebbi became sole ruler of Essex until 694.

Sighere and Sebbi were cousins of their predecessor Swithelm. In 665 Sighere apostasized and fell back into paganism, while Sebbi remained a faithful Christian. They soon developed a rivalry. Sighere found an ally in Wessex, and Sebbi in Mercia. As a result of their rivalry, King Wulfhere of Mercia established himself as overlord of Essex in 665. He despatched Jaruman, the bishop of Mercia, who was assigned to reconvert the people of Essex to Christianity.

In 686, Caedwalla, a Wessex sub-king, established himself as overlord of Essex. He and Sebbi invaded Kent, expelling King Eadric, and Sebbi rules over West Kent.

Sebbi is believed to have abdicated in 694, and was succeeded by his sons Sigeheard and Swaefred, who ruled jointly over Essex. Sebbi died in 695.

 

Preceded by:
Swithelm
King of Essex
664 to 694
ruled jointly with Sighere from 664 to 683
Succeeded by:
Sigeheard and Swaefred

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