Kenneth II (971-95)

After two short reigns mired by dynastic conflict, Scotland’s monarchy was looking a little precarious at the end of the tenth century. If Kenneth II was going to succeed where others would fail he would not only have to defeat his rival, Olaf, but find a way to solve the succession crisis once and for all. His story involves murder, rowing up the River Dee and one of the most remarkable deaths featured in Rex Factor as well as everybody’s favourite monk! To listen to his podcast episode, click here, or read on to find out more.

Cuilean (967-71)

Cuilean was the instigator in a dynastic conflict that beset the Scottish monarchy at the end of the tenth century. As the rival lines descended from Kenneth MacAlpin came into conflict, Cuilean took the throne from Dubh, but would he be able to keep it?  To find out how he fares, you can listen to his podcast here or read on to find out more.

Indulf (954-62)

After two successful reigns, Indulf came to the throne in 954 at a time when the Scottish kingdom was on the up. His reign marks a return to a period where we have short reigns and limited evidence but despite this, the few details we have about Indulf are surprisingly rewarding. Edinburgh, Vikings and a pride before a fall await. Click here to listen to his podcast episode or read on to find out more.

Donald II (889-900)

After the brief interruption of Giric and/or Eochaid, the Alpin dynasty was back on the Scottish throne in the form of Donald II. On the in-tray of the new monarch was a clash between Pictish and Gaelic figures at court and the always ominous return of the Vikings. Listen to the podcast episode here or read on to find out more.

Giric and/or Eochaid

The assassination of King Aed in 878 suggested that the Scottish kingdom was in turmoil after a decade of Viking raids but even the chroniclers seem to have been confused about what happened next. Was Giric king? Or was it Eochaid? Or maybe both! We take a look at what was going on and try to work out who was really king. Listen to the podcast episode here or read on for more information.

Aed (#RememberAed)

When Aed came to the Scottish throne in 877, the country was in turmoil. His brother and predecessor, Constantine I, had been killed by the Vikings after a decade of trying to avoid being killed by the Vikings. The country had suffered the Vikings at their plundering, raiding, slaving, massacring pomp and it would take a strong ruler to set things right – could Aed be that man? Well…no, but read on anyway for the most unmemorable memorable reign in history or click here to listen to his podcast episode!

Donald I

Second comes right after first! Donald I was the second King of Scots, following in his brothers illustrious footsteps, but would he be able to make his mark in the annals of Scottish history? Read on to find out more or listen to the podcast here.

Kenneth MacAlpin

Kenneth MacAlpin is traditionally seen as the first King of Scots, unifying the northern kingdoms against the Vikings and establishing a new nation in the process. However, the truth is a little more nuanced and involves a host of disputed events including warfare, skulduggery, lost animals and a curious smell of fish. So, just who was Kenneth MacAlpin and does he have the Rex Factor? Read our latest blog to find out and vote in our poll to give your verdict.