Aethelred, often referred to as Aethelred the Unready, was an English king who ruled from 968 to 1016. He was born around 966 and became king at a young age after the death of his half-brother, Edmund Ironside. Aethelred's reign was marked by frequent Viking invasions, which led to significant challenges for his rule. Despite his efforts to defend his kingdom, Aethelred struggled with military leadership and political alliances. He is known for issuing the Danegeld, a tax aimed at buying off Viking raiders. Aethelred's reign ended with his death in 1016, after which he was succeeded by his son, Edmund II.