Why Did the Kings of Westeros Submit to Aegon the Conqueror: An Analysis of Their Resistance Efforts

Introduction

Aegon Targaryen, also known as Aegon the Conqueror, unified the Seven Kingdoms by defeating the Iron Throne's claimants. Not all Kings of Westeros submitted to him without a fight. This article delves into the reasons behind their submission or resistance. We'll explore the fascinating tales of various Westerosi Kings and the unique events that shaped their ultimate fate.

Why Did They Submit?

Not all Kings of Westeros fell to Aegon the Conqueror without a fight. However, most of them eventually submitted to the new order of the Targaryens, leading to the unification of the Seven Kingdoms.

King Argilac Durrandon of Stormlands

King Argilac Durrandon of the House Durrandon was a powerful warrior and refused to submit to the Targaryens. He met his fate in battle, being slain by Orys Baratheon. Following his death, his daughter Argella also refused to submit, making her stand until the warriors of Stormlands finally chose to acknowledge the Targaryen rule.

King Harren Hoare of the Isles and Rivers

Harren Hoare, also known as Harren the Black, ruled from Harrenhal, a massive castle of his own construction. However, his fortified stronghold and lineage did not protect him from Aegon the Conqueror. Harren, his family, and his fleet all perished when Aegon's dragon, Balerion, roasted Harrenhal to the ground.

Iron Islands and Sistermen Rebellions

The warrior clans of the Iron Islands and Sistermen offered fierce resistance in response to the Targaryen conquest. Visenya Targaryen subdued both factions, settling their disputes through a mixture of diplomacy and force. The peaceful submission of the Iron Islands and the suppression of the Sistermen rebellions are prime examples of Aegon's strategic approach to reunifying Westeros.

A Catalog of Conquests: Houses Lannister and Gardener

Houses Lannister and Gardener also showed significant resistance. In the battle of the Field of Fire, Aegon, Rhaenys, and Visenya, all riding dragons, decisively defeated the Lannisters and Gardeners. The combined might of the Targaryens, wielding dragonfire, secured the submission of these bitterly opposed houses.

The Exception: Princess Meria Martell of Dorne

Notably, Princess Meria Martell, the daughter of Har_DEN Martell of Dorne, did not submit to Aegon the Conqueror or his successors. This single point of resistance led to a prolonged conflict known as the Targaryen conquest of Dorne, stretching over a decade.

Meria Martell's Resistance

The Targaryens, specifically Aegon, Rhaenys, and Visenya, who were supported by dragons, persisted through 10 years of warfare to finally conquer Dorne. Several key events marked their relentless pursuit of submission from Dorne:

4 AC: Aegon led an attack on the Princess Pass, Orys targeted House Wyl, and Rhaenys attacked Planky Town and Sunspear, which was found to be abandoned. 7 AC: Orys was released to Aegon but was subjected to torture by House Wyl, resulting in the loss of one hand. House Wyl was subsequently destroyed in retribution by Aegon. 8 AC: Visenya attacked landmarks such as Lemonwood, Ghost Hill, and Tor. 9 AC: Aegon, Rhaenys, and Visenya targeted Sandstone, Vaith, and Hellholt in their relentless campaign. 10 AC: All three of them targeted various locations simultaneously, with Aegon burning Skyreach, Visenya burning Starfall, and Rhaenys dying during the attack on Helltholt.

Rhaenys' Death and Dornish War Consequence: Following Rhaenys' death, a period of retaliation by the Targaryens saw the burning of every city of Dorne except Sunspear for two years. Dornish independence was finally granted in 13 AC after the death of Aegon the Conqueror and the submission of Dorne to the Targaryen rule.

Conclusion

The Targaryen conquest of Westeros was a complex series of events marked by both fierce resistance and eventual submission. The story of Aegon the Conqueror and his lesser-known counterpart, Princess Meria Martell, paints a vivid picture of the various battles and strategies employed by both conquerors and defenders. This analysis highlights the significance of strategic alliances, dragonfire, and the sheer might of the Targaryens in securing the ultimate unification of the Seven Kingdoms.