Bedford was occupied by the Romans, but in their time it does not appear to have been a place of much importance. Under the Saxon rule it became of greater consideration, was the scene of many severe conflicts, and was much favoured by Offa, King of the Mercians, who chose it as his place of sepulture. In the Saxon period the town acquired municipal privileges. It was a corporation by prescription till the reign of Henry I., but the earliest charter now extant was granted by Henry II., who confirmed all the liberties and free customs which the burgesses enjoyed in the reign of Henry I.