Mercia

Founded by the Angles in the 5th century following the Roman departure. Located in central England or Midlands, Became powerful under the kings Penda 632-654 and Offa 757-796. One of the kingdoms of the heptarchy, it was at its height after 670 where their kings were acknowledged as being the overlords of England south of the river Humber. In 877 it was divided between Wessex and the Danes ( see Danelaw).