Cerdic was a king of the West Saxons and founder of Wessex, England.

When did Cerdic live?

Cerdic lived in the 6th century and is said to have reigned c. 519-534.

Is Cerdic the same person as King Arthur?

Claims that Cerdic is the same person as King Arthur are unsubstantiated. It is generally thought they were two different people.

Is Cerdic presented accurately in the 2004 film King Arthur?

No. The film presents Cerdic as Arthur's adversary at the Battle of Badon but none of the histories of that battle mention him at all.

Cerdic

Server Costs Fundraiser 2024

Help our mission to provide free history education to the world! Please donate and contribute to covering our server costs in 2024. With your support, millions of people learn about history entirely for free every month.

$3926 / $18000

❤ Donate

Definition

Cerdic of Wessex (r. 519-534) was King of the West Saxons and the founder of Wessex. His influence was so profound that later genealogies of the English monarchy would claim that all the sovereigns of Britain, save for Canute, Hardecanute, the Harolds, and William the Conqueror, were descended from him.

More about: Cerdic

Timeline

495 CE
Cerdic lands in Britain with his son Cynric, founds Wessex.
508 CE
Cerdic expands his kingdom through conquest.
514 CE
Arrival of more West Saxons in Wessex who fight for Cerdic.
519 CE - 534 CE
Reign of Cerdic of Wessex.
519 CE
Cerdic is crowned King of Wessex.
527 CE - 530 CE
Further expansion of the Kingdom of Wessex under Cerdic.
534 CE
Death of Cerdic who is succeeded by his son, Cynric.