Offa of Mercia

Offa of Mercia was a powerful 8th-century king in what is now England, reigning from around 757 to 796 AD. He is best known for unifying much of southern England under his control, strengthening the kingdom through military might and strategic alliances. Offa built a large dyke, called Offa’s Dyke, along the border with Wales to defend against invasions. He also enhanced trade, promoted Christianity, and minted a widely circulated silver coinage. His reign marked a period of stability and expansion, making him one of the most influential rulers of early medieval England.