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Áed mac Cináeda facts for kids

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Áed mac Cináeda
King of the Picts
Reign 877–878
Predecessor Constantín mac Cináeda
Successor Giric and Eochaid
Died 878
Strathallan
Burial Iona
Issue Constantín mac Áeda
House Alpin
Father Cináed mac Ailpín (Kenneth I)

Áed mac Cináeda (pronounced: AYD mak kin-AY-da) was a king who ruled over the Picts, an ancient people in what is now Scotland. He was also known by his nicknames, like Áed of the White Flowers, the wing-footed, or the white-foot. He became king in 877, taking over from his brother, Constantín mac Cináeda. Áed was part of the House of Alpin, a very important family of rulers in early Scotland.

Who Was King Áed?

Áed mac Cináeda was the son of Cináed mac Ailpín, who is often called Kenneth I. Kenneth I was a very important figure because he is seen as the first king of the Scots and Picts, bringing these groups together. Áed followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a king himself.

Becoming King of the Picts

In 877, Áed's brother, Constantín mac Cináeda, died. This meant it was Áed's turn to become king. The Picts were a group of people who lived in the northern and eastern parts of Scotland during the Early Middle Ages. They had their own unique culture, language, and art. Ruling the Picts meant leading their people and protecting their lands.

Áed's Short Reign

Áed's time as king was very short, lasting only about a year. He ruled from 877 to 878. During this period, the lands that would later become Scotland were often changing hands, with different kings and groups fighting for control. The exact details of Áed's reign are not well known because there are not many written records from that time.

The End of His Rule

Áed died in 878. Historical records suggest he died in a place called Strathallan. After his death, two people, Giric and Eochaid, became the next rulers. Áed was buried on the island of Iona, a very important religious place for early Scottish kings.

His Family and Legacy

Áed had a son named Constantín mac Áeda. This shows that the tradition of kingship often passed down through families. Even though Áed's reign was brief, he was part of a long line of kings who helped shape the early history of Scotland. His family, the House of Alpin, played a key role in the formation of the Kingdom of Alba, which was the beginning of modern Scotland.

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