The first dynasty of Mercian kings are called the Iclingas. The name comes from Icel who ruled the Mercians c. 450.[a][3] Members of this dynasty claimed to be descendants the royal family of their homeland in Western Europe. Mercia became a dominant force under Penda from about c. 632 until his death in 655.[4] Bretwalda, his son, was the first Mercian overlord of the southern English.[5]Offa (757–796), was the first of the Anglo-Saxon kings who might rightly be called "king of the English".[6] Mercia was never again as powerful as it was during Offa's reign.[7] For their successors in England see List of English monarchs.
When the Iclingas line died out in the male line, members of other noble Mercian families competed for the throne.[9] The 'B' dynasty is for kings Beornwulf, Berhtwulf and Burgred. The 'W' dynasty is for king Wiglaf.[9] Others have no dynasty they are connected with.
After being defeated by Alfred the Great, the king of Wessex, the rulers were no longer considered kings and queens but rather ealdormen. The title of the female rulers was "Lady of the Mercians." They were styled Kings and Queens in Mercia only.
Aethelred, Lord of the Mercians (c. 883–911) - Unknown dynasty.
Ethelflaeda, Lady of the Mercians (911–918) - Daughter of King Alfred of Wessex, wife of Aethelred.
Aelfwynn, Lady of the Mercians (918) - Daughter of Ethelflaeda and Aethelred. Removed from her position by her uncle Edward the Elder, King of Wessex.
↑Several names of places in the eastern parts of England appear to named for Icel or his people. Ickleton in Cambridgeshire, Ickleford in Hertfordshire and Iklingham in Suffolk are examples. This may indicate Icel and his people may have been in Middle Anglia before moving into the midlands of Mercia.[3]