Erc of Dalriada

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Erc was king of Irish Dál Riata until 474. The Annals of the Four Masters imply Erc was the same person as Muiredach son of Eógan mac Néill son of Niall of the Nine Hostages, High King of Ireland at the end of the 5th century. Other reports imply he descended from an older royal family dating to Conaire Cóem in the 2nd century. Both possibilities remain viable.

Dál Riata began its separation from Ireland during Erc's reign. Its former provinces in Ireland, mostly in modern County Antrim, falling more in line with the High King of Ireland. Erc established his base in Scotland near the area called Argyll, which means 'coastline of the Gaels.'

Erc was probably the father of Fergus Mor, king of Dál Riata, though his immediate successor was Loarn, a kinsman who probably succeeded through the tanistry law. Assuming Erc was a member of Niall's family, he would also be of the Uí Néill royal line, as would be his descendants. This is supported by his son, Muirchertach mac Ercae becoming High King of Ireland in 504.