Alpín mac Echdach facts for kids

Alpín mac Echdach was a figure believed to be a king of Dál Riata. Dál Riata was an old kingdom that included parts of what are now Ireland and Scotland.

Alpín's name appeared in a family tree created in the 900s. This chart aimed to connect the kings of Alba (which is an old name for Scotland) to their legendary ancestors from Dál Riata and Ireland. In this family tree, Alpín's father is named Eochaid. Alpín is shown as the father of two important kings: Kenneth MacAlpin and Domnall mac Ailpín.

Some names similar to Alpín's, like Cináed and Alpín, belonged to Pictish kings in the 700s. These were brothers, Ciniod and Elphin, who ruled from 763 to 780. However, Alpín's supposed father, Eochaid IV, is not mentioned in any records from that time.

Alpín's Family and Reign

Historical records tell us about Alpín. The Scottish historian John of Fordun wrote that "Alpin the son of Achay" became king in 831. He ruled for three years. Another old book from the 1100s, called the Cronica Regum Scottorum, also lists Alpín as a king. These early writings do not say who Alpín's parents were.

Alpín's mother was the sister of Causantín mac Fergusa, who was a King of the Picts. This made her an important person. Alpín married a "Scottish Princess" and they had two sons.

War and Death

Alpín is mostly remembered for a big war he fought against the Picts. The Picts were a group of people who lived in ancient Scotland. They had taken control of parts of the kingdom. Alpín decided to challenge their king.

Alpín led his army to a village near Angus. A fierce battle took place there. The Pictish king was killed, and the Scots won that fight. However, the Picts then chose a new king. This new king was said to be very brave and important. He might have been Drest IX.

This new Pictish king changed the course of the war. In 834, near Galloway, he defeated King Alpín and his army. Alpín and many of his nobles died in this battle. It is said that the place where he was killed was later called Bas Alpin, which means "Alpin's death."

Alpín died on July 20 or in August 834. He was either killed during the battle or shortly after. We do not know where he was buried. His son, Kenneth MacAlpin, became king after him.

See also

In Spanish: Alpin mac Echdach para niños