Erc of Dalriada facts for kids

Erc was a very early king from a place called Dál Riata. This kingdom was located in parts of what is now Ireland and Scotland. He ruled from about 439 AD until 474 AD.

Erc is known as the father of three sons: Fergus Mór, Loarn, and Oengus. His father was Eochaid Muinremuir.

Who Was Erc?

Erc was a leader in the ancient kingdom of Dál Riata. This kingdom was important because it connected people from Ireland to people who later settled in Scotland.

Erc's Family and Legacy

Erc is famous because many people believe he was the ancestor of the kings of Dál Riata. Through his son, Fergus Mór, he is traditionally linked to the later Kings of Scotland. This means he might be a very important figure in Scottish history!

However, some historians now question parts of this old tradition. They look at different old writings to understand the true story.

Different Ideas About Erc

Some old stories suggest that Erc might have been part of a different powerful family group called the Uí Néill. But these ideas come from much later writings, like the Annals of the Four Masters.

The people of Dál Riata were actually thought to be part of a group called the Érainn. They believed they were related to a famous ancient king named Conaire Mór. Sometimes, old family trees would connect different groups of people, even if they were only related by marriage. This helped to show how everyone was part of a bigger story.