Domnall Brecc facts for kids

Domnall Brecc (which means Donald the Freckled) was a king of Dál Riata, a kingdom in what is now Scotland. He ruled from about 629 until his death in 642. His father was Eochaid Buide.

Domnall Brecc first appears in historical records in 622. He was present at a battle called Cend Delgthen, which was likely in Ireland. In this battle, he fought alongside Conall Guthbinn and was on the winning side. This was the only battle Domnall Brecc is known to have won.

Why Was Domnall Brecc Important?

Domnall Brecc was a significant king because he changed the alliances of Dál Riata. He broke the kingdom's alliance with the powerful Cenél Conaill clan. This decision led to several defeats for Domnall.

Major Battles and Defeats

Domnall Brecc faced four major defeats after breaking his alliance. These losses weakened his kingdom.

Battle of Mag Rath (637)

In 637, Domnall and his ally Congal Cáech fought against Domnall mac Áedo. Domnall mac Áedo was the High King of Ireland and a leader of the Cenél Conaill. Domnall Brecc's forces were defeated at the Battle of Mag Rath (modern-day Moira, County Down).

Losses to the Picts

Domnall Brecc also lost battles to the Picts in 635 and again in 638. The Picts were another powerful group in ancient Scotland. These defeats showed the challenges Domnall faced in protecting his kingdom.

Death at Strathcarron (642)

His final defeat came in 642 at Strathcarron. He was killed by Eugein I of Alt Clut, the king of Alt Clut. This battle marked the end of Domnall Brecc's reign.

What Does the Poem Y Gododdin Say?

An old Welsh poem called Y Gododdin mentions Domnall Brecc's death. A part of the poem describes the battle and his fate:

I saw an army from Pentir,

They fought bravely around the fire.
I saw another army, quickly coming from their town,
They had risen at the call of Nwython's grandson.
I saw strong men who arrived at dawn,

And the head of Dyfnwal Frych (Domnall Brecc), ravens picked at it.

This poem shows how important Domnall Brecc's death was at the time.

Domnall Brecc's Family and Legacy

Domnall Brecc had a son named Domangart mac Domnaill. Domangart later became king of Dál Riata, just like his father. Many later kings of the Cenél nGabráin family were descended from Domnall Brecc.

He also had another son, Cathasach, who died around 650. A grandson, also named Cathasach, died around 688. His family continued to play a role in the history of Dál Riata.