This book traces the history of relations between the kingdom of Strathclyde and Anglo-Saxon England in the Viking period of the ninth to eleventh centuries AD. It puts the spotlight on the North Britons or 'Cumbrians', an ancient people whose kings ruled from a power-base at Govan on the western side of present-day Glasgow. In the tenth century, these kings extended their rule southward from Clydesdale to the southern shore of the Solway Firth, bringing their language and culture to a region that had been in English hands for more than two hundred years. They played a key role in many of the...

Who was Merlin? Is the famous wizard of Arthurian legend based on a real person? In this book, Merlin s origins are traced back to the story of Lailoken, a mysterious wild man who is said to have lived in the Scottish Lowlands in the sixth century AD. The book considers the question of whether Lailoken belongs to myth or reality. It looks at the historical background of his story and discusses key characters such as Saint Kentigern of Glasgow and King Rhydderch of Dumbarton, as well as important events such as the Battle of Arfderydd."

Drawing together the remaining historical fragments of the Pictsan ancient nation who ruled most of northern and eastern Scotland during the Dark Agesthis account relates the story of this mysterious people from their emergence in Roman times to their eventual disappearance. Considering their unique identity, language, and vibrant artistic culture, this chronicle examines the Picts legacy, including the mysterious monuments that still survive in modern Scotland s landscape: standing stones decorated with incredible skill and covered with enigmatic symbols. Despite being absorbed by the...

Published to coincide with the 1100th anniversary of the death of AEthelflaed, who ruled over the ancient kingdom of Mercia (English Midlands). The book examines her important place in history as the only woman who ruled one of the major powers of Dark Age Britain.