Ferchar Fota facts for kids

Ferchar Fota (meaning Ferchar the Tall) was an important leader in an ancient kingdom called Dál Riata. He likely ruled a part of this kingdom known as the Cenél Loairn. Some historians even think he might have been king of all Dál Riata. He died around the year 697. His father was Feredach mac Fergusa. Ferchar was also believed to be a descendant of Loarn mac Eirc, who was a very early leader.

Who Was Ferchar Fota?

Ferchar Fota was a powerful figure in the early history of what is now Scotland. He lived during the 7th century. His nickname, "the Tall," probably described his physical appearance. He was part of a group called the Cenél Loairn. This group was one of the main families or clans within the larger kingdom of Dál Riata.

The Kingdom of Dál Riata

Dál Riata was an ancient kingdom. It covered parts of western Scotland and northeastern Ireland. It was a very important kingdom during the early Middle Ages. People from Dál Riata were known as Gaels. They spoke an early form of Gaelic.

The Cenél Loairn

The Cenél Loairn was one of the main groups of people in Dál Riata. They were named after Loarn mac Eirc. They lived mostly in the area of modern-day Argyll in Scotland. Ferchar Fota was a leader of this powerful group.

Ferchar's Time as a Leader

Historical records, called "annals," tell us about Ferchar Fota. These annals were like ancient history books. Monks and scholars wrote them down over many years.

The Battle of Tiree

The Annals of Tigernach mention Ferchar Fota in the year 678. They say he led the Cenél Loairn in a battle on an island called Tiree. They fought against "the Britons." These Britons were likely from the Kingdom of Strathclyde, another kingdom in ancient Scotland. In this battle, Ferchar's forces were defeated. The Annals of Ulster also mention this battle, but they do not name Ferchar specifically.

How Long Did He Rule?

Historians are not completely sure how long Ferchar Fota was a king. One old poem, the Duan Albanach, says he ruled for 21 years. This would mean he started ruling around the 670s. However, some think he only became king of all Dál Riata later. This might have happened after the death of another king, Domnall Donn, in 696. Ferchar Fota himself died in 697.

Ferchar's Family and Legacy

Ferchar Fota had two sons who also became kings of Dál Riata. This shows how important his family was in the kingdom's history.

• Ainbcellach mac Ferchair: He was one of Ferchar's sons. Ainbcellach also became a king of Dál Riata.
• Selbach mac Ferchair: Another son of Ferchar, Selbach, also ruled as king of Dál Riata.

The fact that both his sons became kings highlights the power and influence of Ferchar Fota's family line within the kingdom.