King Æthelred, often called Æthelred the Unready, was the King of England from 968 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. Æthelred's reign saw the establishment of the Danish threat, leading to significant battles and political turmoil. He attempted to buy peace with the Vikings through payments known as Danegeld, but this strategy ultimately failed. Æthelred's legacy is marked by his efforts to defend England during a tumultuous period in its history.