The Brief but Brilliant Reign of Edmund Ironside Though he was king for just 222 days, the life and legacy of Edmund II, who ascended to the English throne 1,000 years ago this year, remain impressive, claims David McDermott. David McDermott | Published in History Today Volume 66 Issue 3 March 2016 To continue reading this article you need to purchase a subscription, available from only £5. Start my trial subscription now If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in. Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems. Anglo-Saxon Popular articles The First Christmas Tree Christmas 1914, and After