Donald II of Scotland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Donald II |
|
|---|---|
| King of the Picts/King of Scots | |
| Reign | 889–900 |
| Predecessor | Giric |
| Successor | Constantine II |
| Died | 900 Forres or Dunnottar |
| Burial | Iona |
| Issue | Malcolm I, King of Alba |
| House | Alpin |
| Father | Constantín mac Cináeda, King of the Picts |
Donald II was a king who ruled in what is now Scotland during the late 800s. His full name in Scottish Gaelic was Domnall mac Causantín. He was the son of Constantine I, another important king.
Donald II is sometimes called Dásachtach, which means "the Madman". This nickname comes from an old poem called the Prophecy of Berchán. He was known as the King of the Picts, but during his time, the kingdom started to be called Alba, which was an early name for Scotland.
Becoming King of Alba
Donald II became king around the year 889. He took over after the previous king, Giric, either died or was removed from power. Donald ruled for about 11 years, until 900.
During his reign, the land was changing. Before Donald, the rulers were called "Kings of the Picts". The Picts were an ancient people who lived in what is now eastern and northern Scotland. But by Donald's time, the kingdom was becoming more unified and was starting to be known as "Alba". This was a big step towards the country we now call Scotland.
Challenges and Battles
Donald II faced many challenges during his time as king. The Annals of Ulster, which are old records, say that the Vikings often attacked Scotland. These were tough times for the kingdom.
One important event was an attack on a place called Dunnottar. Some stories say this attack might have been part of a bigger invasion led by a famous Viking leader, Harald Fairhair.
The King's Death
Donald II died in the year 900. There are different stories about how he died and where. Some old writings say he died at Dunnottar, possibly in a battle against other Gaels (people from Scotland and Ireland) rather than Vikings. Other records suggest he died at Forres.
Like his father, Constantine I, Donald II died at a young age and in a violent way. He was buried on the island of Iona, which was a traditional burial place for Scottish kings.
Who Ruled Next?
After Donald II, his cousin, Constantine II, became king. Donald's own son, Malcolm, later became king as Malcolm I.
Some old texts hint that another king might have ruled for a very short time between Donald II and Constantine II. However, most historians believe this was likely a mistake in the records.
See also
In Spanish: Donald II de Escocia para niños
