Portrait of Macbeth, by Jacob de Wet II circa 1684-1686
1040 - 1057

Macbeth

Macbeth, known as Mac Bethad mac Findlaích, ruled as King of Scotland from 1040 to 1057 CE, ascending to the throne after defeating and killing Duncan I. His reign stands in contrast to the Shakespearean portrayal; historically, Macbeth's rule was largely stable and prosperous. He undertook a pilgrimage to Rome, highlighting his piety, and his reign saw no major conflicts until the later years. In 1054, he faced an uprising led by Duncan I's son, Malcolm, which culminated in Macbeth's defeat and death in 1057. While his kingship was notably effective and marked by relative peace, Macbeth's legacy is often overshadowed by the dramatized version of his story, which paints a more turbulent and sinister picture of his reign.

This event is also available in the following timelines: