Causantín mac Cináeda

Reign: 862 – 877
Life: 836–877

Causantín mac Cináeda (Modern Gaelic: Còiseam mac Choinnich; c. He is often known as Constantine I in reference to his place in modern lists of Scottish monarchs, but contemporary sources described Causantín only as a Pictish king. A son of Cináed mac Ailpín ("Kenneth MacAlpin"), he succeeded his uncle Domnall mac Ailpín as Pictish king following the latter's death on 13 April 862. The reign of Causantín likely saw increased activity by Vikings, based in Ireland, Northumbria and northern Britain.

During Causantín mac Cináeda's reign, Emperor Seiwa ruled Japan, Alfred the Great ruled England, and Emperor Yizong of Tang ruled China.

Want to learn more? Further reading

Scotland: A History by Jenny Wormald

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The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

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From the library

Go deeper on Causantín mac Cináeda

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Scotland: A History

Jenny Wormald

The standard one-volume history of Scotland, essential context for the early kingdom and its kings.

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Medieval Scotland: The Making of an Identity
Bruce Webster
A concise survey of medieval Scotland that situates Causantín mac Cináeda within church, lordship, and crown.
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