Edward, known as Edward the Confessor, was the last Anglo-Saxon king of England. His reign began in 1042, following the death of Harthacnut, the son of Cnut the Great. Edward's early life was marked by his family's exile due to the Danish conquest of England. After years in Normandy, he was invited back to England by the nobles to claim the throne, leading to his coronation at Westminster Abbey. The event was significant not only for Edward's personal journey but also for the broader political landscape of England.

Upon ascending the throne, Edward aimed to restore the power and influence of the Anglo-Saxon nobility, which had been weakened under previous Danish rulers. His reign was relatively peaceful compared to those of his predecessors, and he focused on strengthening the church and fortifying royal authority. Edward's personal piety earned him a reputation for holiness, leading to his canonization as a saint after his death in 1066. His decisions, including the promotion of Norman allies, would later create tensions in England.

As he neared the end of his reign, the lack of a direct heir became a significant concern, prompting speculation and competition among the nobility regarding succession. Edward's death eventually led to the Norman Conquest, dramatically altering the course of English history and ending Anglo-Saxon rule. His reign set the stage for a cultural shift as Norman influences began to permeate various aspects of English life, governance, and social structure.