Talorcan son of Drestan facts for kids
Talorcan, son of Drestan, was a king in ancient Scotland. He ruled a place called Atholl, which is in modern-day Scotland. We know he died in the year 739.
Who Was Talorcan?
Talorcan was an important figure in early Scottish history. He was known as the king of Atholl. This area was a kingdom in what is now central Scotland.
Family Connections
Old history books, like the Annals of Ulster, tell us about Talorcan. In the year 713, his brother, King Naiton son of Der-Ilei, captured him. Naiton was the king of the Picts, an ancient people who lived in Scotland.
Talorcan's father was named Drestan. Drestan was likely a king of Atholl too. Talorcan's mother was probably Der-Ilei. She was also Naiton's mother. This means Talorcan and Naiton shared the same mother. Der-Ilei might have been related to an earlier Pictish king named Bridei son of Beli.
A Bid for Power
In 713, Talorcan might have tried to become the king of the Picts himself. This could be why his brother Naiton captured him. Another one of Naiton's brothers, Ciniod, also died that year. This suggests there might have been a struggle for power.
Talorcan's Final Years
Years later, in 734, Talorcan was captured again. This happened near Dunollie Castle, a strong fort. At that time, Dunollie was controlled by a leader named Muiredach.
Sadly, Talorcan's life ended in 739. He was drowned by another Pictish king, Onuist son of Uurguist. Both the Annals of Ulster and the Annals of Tigernach clearly state that Talorcan was the King of Atholl when he died. These old records help us understand his role in history.
