Áed mac Boanta facts for kids

Áed mac Boanta (died 839) was likely a king of Dál Riata. Dál Riata was an ancient kingdom in what is now parts of Scotland and Ireland. Áed's story comes from old historical records. These records help us understand early Scottish and Irish history.

Who Was Áed mac Boanta?

Áed mac Boanta was a ruler from a long time ago. He lived in the 9th century. Historians believe he was a king of Dál Riata. This kingdom was very important in early medieval times.

What Do Old Records Say?

The main information about Áed comes from ancient writings. One important source is the Annals of Ulster. These are historical records from Ireland. They tell us about events from many centuries ago.

The Battle of 839

The Annals of Ulster mention Áed in a sad way. They record that he died in a big battle in the year 839. This battle was fought against Vikings. Many people from a place called Fortriu died in this fight. Among them were important leaders like Áed mac Boanta.

How Long Did He Rule?

Other old texts also mention Áed. The Duan Albanach is a poem about Scottish kings. It says that an "Áed An" ruled for four years. This "Áed An" is thought to be Áed mac Boanta. He ruled over Dál Riata during this time.

Another record is the Synchronisms of Flann Mainistrech. This text lists kings in order. It places Áed between two other rulers. These were Caustantín mac Fergusa and Eóganán mac Óengusa. It is believed that Áed was the one who truly ruled Dál Riata among them.

What Happened After Áed?

It is thought that Domnall mac Caustantín might have been king before Áed. After Áed's death, it's not clear who ruled Dál Riata. The region soon came under the control of the Norse-Gaels. These were people of mixed Norse (Viking) and Gaelic heritage. Groups like the Uí Ímair became very powerful in the late 800s.