Ainbcellach mac Ferchair facts for kids
Ainbcellach mac Ferchair was an important figure in the history of Dál Riata, an ancient kingdom in what is now Scotland and parts of Ireland. He was a king for a short time in the late 7th century.
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Ainbcellach mac Ferchair: A King of Dál Riata
His Family and Nickname
Ainbcellach was the son of Ferchar Fota, another powerful leader. An old poem from the 11th century, called the Duan Albanach, describes Ainbcellach as "the Good." This suggests he was well-regarded by some people.
A Short Time as King
Ainbcellach became king of the Cenél Loairn in 697. The Cenél Loairn was one of the main groups of people living in Dál Riata. He might have even been king of all Dál Riata for a short time. However, his rule did not last long. In 698, he was removed from power and sent away to Ireland.
Return and Conflict
It is not clear how long Ainbcellach stayed in exile. Records from the early 8th century mention fighting in Dál Riata. This fighting might have been between Ainbcellach and his brother, Selbach mac Ferchair. It could also have been a struggle for control of Dál Riata between the Cenél Loairn and another important group, the Cenél nGabráin.
Ainbcellach definitely returned to Dál Riata by September 719. Sadly, he was killed in a battle against his brother Selbach in a place called "Finnglen." This place was possibly near Loch Fyne in Scotland.
His Legacy
Ainbcellach's son, Muiredach, later became a king of the Cenél Loairn. Many years later, the Mormaers of Moray were important leaders in Scotland. They believed they were descendants of Ainbcellach and the Cenél Loairn through Ainbcellach's son Ruadrí.
