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Malcolm II was the first king to rule over the whole of [[Scotland]] as it is now (in terms of area). Malcolm was a succesor of Kenneth McAlpin (first ruler of a unified ''Alba'' (Scotland)) .

'''Malcolm II''' (d.1034), [[king]] of [[Scotland]] (1005-1034]], later known as “''the most victorious''”, was the first king to control Scotland as it is today. He assumed the throne after killing his cousin, Kenneth III in battle.

[[Category:Scottish Monarchs]]

 

Early in his rule he ravaged [[Northumbria]] as far as [[Durham]] but was forced to withdraw. In 1016 or 1018 he was more successful, defeating the Northumbrians at Carham -  which established definite Scottish rule over [[Lothian]] – and about the same time assumed control of the kingdom of [[Strathclyde]] after the death its king; appointing his grandson (the future [[Duncan I]]) as its ruler. In 1030/31 he accepted the overlordship of [[Canute]], and in the last year of his reign was forced to defend himself against family uprisings. There is some evidence he was assassinated.

 

He was the last direct male descendant of [[Kenneth MacAlpin]] to hold the throne. He may have been buried on [[Iona]].

 

[[Category: Scottish Monarchs]]