Battle of the Isle of Man facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Battle of Isle of Man |
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| Belligerents | |||||||
| Somhairle MacGillebride | Gofraidh mac Amhlaibh | ||||||
| Strength | |||||||
| 53 birlinns | unknown | ||||||
| Casualties and losses | |||||||
| unknown | unknown | ||||||
The Battle of the Isle of Man was an important fight that happened in 1158. It took place on the Isle of Man. This battle was between two powerful leaders: Godred II, who was the King of Mann and the Isles, and Somerled, a Celtic king from areas like Kintyre, Argyll, and Lorne in Scotland.
What Happened at the Battle?
In 1158, King Somerled sailed his large fleet of 53 birlinns (a type of Viking longship) to Ramsey Bay on the Isle of Man. His goal was to attack the forces of King Godred II. Somerled's forces began to plunder, or raid, the island. They took valuable goods and caused damage.
King Godred II realized he needed help. He left the Isle of Man to find support. He traveled to England, Scotland, and Norway. He hoped to gather enough strength to fight back against Somerled.
Who Won the Battle?
Somerled won the Battle of the Isle of Man. Because of his victory, he took control of the Kingdom of Mann and the Isles. This kingdom was a powerful area that included the Isle of Man and many islands off the coast of Scotland.
To make his claim official, Somerled visited King Inge of Norway in 1069. King Inge confirmed Somerled's right to be the King of Mann and the Isles. Somerled held this important title until he died in 1164. His death happened at the battle of Renfrew. After Somerled's death, Godred II was able to return and become King of Mann and the Isles again.
See also
