Official Clan MacTavish Society

                                    since 1997

                            The Battle of Largs (1263)

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Earlier, in 1098 Edgar had ceded the Hebrides to Norway even though the Norwegian kings rarely exercised any control over them (that being a haven for the Vikings raiders).

Somerled did indeed defeat the Viking (Norse) invaders in a large sea-battle (the only sea battle the Vikings ever lost in and around the British Isles), and took his share of the that land the Norse had previously occupied. This took place in the mid 12th century. As you know, he is the progenitor of clans Donald and MacDougall. But that didn't end the fighting with the Norwegian king....a much different opponent than the Viking raiders that Somerled defeated.

Alexander III tried to avoid the warfare by offering to purchase the lands from Norway. This only infuriated King Haakon IV of Norway. King Haakon attacked.

Haakon, learning of Scottish raids on Skye, assembled a huge fleet (200 ships) to sail to Scotland. Alexander III used negotiating skills to his best advantage to stall the coming Norwegian fleet whilst talks went on. He knew that this was also storm season in the area and he counted on that very fact. As if expected, a terrible storm arose and blew the Norwegian ships all over the Hebrides and elsewhere. Four days of skirmishes (both on land and sea) ensued with the results being inconclusive. But then Haakon attempted to regroup near Orkney, but his fleet broke up and Haakon himself was stranded on Orkney. He died there 2 months later. (1263).

The Treaty of Perth was signed after that affair giving the Hebrides to Scotland. But it would be a long time before the Norwegians would surrender Orkney and the Shetlands to Scotland.

I hope this helps clarify the situation of Alba and petty kings in early Scotland. If not, please let me know.

Skyelander

Scottish Highlands and Islands - Scottish History by Robert Gunn

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