Ethelred, often referred to as Ethelred the Unready, was an English king who ruled from 978 to 1016. He faced numerous challenges during his reign, including Viking invasions and internal strife. His nickname, "Unready," comes from the Old English word "unræd," meaning ill-advised or poorly prepared, reflecting his struggles in leadership and decision-making. Ethelred's reign was marked by attempts to buy off the Vikings, which ultimately proved ineffective. He is known for issuing the Danegeld, a tax aimed at raising funds to pay off the invaders. Despite his efforts, Ethelred's rule ended with his exile, and he was succeeded by his son, Edmund Ironside.