The North Britons represent one of the lesser-known groups among the early medieval inhabitants of Scotland. Similar to the Picts and Vikings, they significantly influenced the development of Scottish history during the first millennium AD, however, their contributions are frequently overlooked or disregarded.
This book seeks to rectify this oversight by exploring the history of this indigenous Celtic population throughout the tumultuous centuries, from the Roman withdrawal to the Norman invasion. The narrative focuses on Strathclyde, the final kingdom of the North Britons, tracing its rise from Dumbarton in the fifth century to its eventual decline in the eleventh century.
Additionally, it examines other realms, such as the Edinburgh-centered kingdom of Gododdin and the enigmatic Rheged, alongside fragments of heroic poetry that honour the bravery of their warriors. Interwoven with the recurring motifs of conflict and political strife is a parallel exploration of the rise of Christianity and the Church’s impact on royal affairs.
Notable ecclesiastical figures, including Ninian of Whithorn and Kentigern of Glasgow, are analyzed in an effort to clarify their identities amidst a complex array of historical sources.
The concluding chapters of the book investigate the reasons behind the North Britons’ loss of their unique identity, culminating in their assimilation with the Picts, thus becoming one of Scotland’s lost nations.
Author: Tim Clarkson | Publisher: Birlinn Ltd | Published: 6 September 2010 | Length: 288 pages | ISBN: 9781906566180 | Publishers page
