Otford, battle of

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Otford, battle of, c.776. In the later 8th cent., Kent was struggling to retain its independence against the growing power of Mercia. In the 770s Kent's rulers were resisting their demotion to subkings. According to Henry of Huntingdon, the Mercians were victorious at this battle near Sevenoaks. But Stenton argues that Egbert of Kent defeated Offa and that Kentish independence was restored for some years. But after Offa's victory over Wessex at Benson, pressure was resumed and Kent subdued and absorbed into Mercia.

J. A. Cannon

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