How many Targaryen kings were there? This is a question that has intrigued fans of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series and the subsequent HBO adaptation, “Game of Thrones.” The Targaryen dynasty, known for its long reign and the infamous “blood rain,” has been a central part of the series’ lore. Understanding the number of Targaryen kings requires a dive into the rich history of Westeros and the intricate family tree of the Targaryens.
The Targaryen family first rose to power in Westeros after the Targaryen Conquest, which ended the Age of Heroes and the Andal conquest of Westeros. The dynasty began with Aegon the Conqueror, who united the Seven Kingdoms with the help of his dragons. Over the centuries, the Targaryens ruled with an iron fist, often using their dragons to enforce their will. However, their reign was not without controversy, as they were also known for their incestuous relationships and the resulting inbreeding, which eventually led to the dynasty’s downfall.
To answer the question of how many Targaryen kings there were, we must first establish the time frame in which the Targaryen dynasty was in power. The Targaryen family’s rule began with Aegon the Conqueror and ended with Aerys II Targaryen, also known as the Mad King. This period spans approximately 300 years, from the Targaryen Conquest to the events of “A Song of Ice and Fire.”
During this time, there were a total of 13 Targaryen kings. Here is a list of the Targaryen kings, starting with Aegon the Conqueror and ending with Aerys II Targaryen:
1. Aegon I Targaryen
2. Aenys I Targaryen
3. Maegor I Targaryen
4. Jaehaerys I Targaryen
5. Alysanne Targaryen (reigned as Queen Regent)
6. Daeron I Targaryen
7. Baelor I Targaryen
8. Viserys I Targaryen
9. Aerys I Targaryen
10. Rhaegar Targaryen
11. Aerys II Targaryen (the Mad King)
12. Rhaegar II Targaryen
13. Daenerys Targaryen (reigned as the Mother of Dragons)
It is important to note that some of these rulers were also queens regent, such as Alysanne Targaryen, who reigned alongside her husband, Jaehaerys I Targaryen. Additionally, Daenerys Targaryen, while not a king, played a significant role in the series as the last surviving member of the Targaryen dynasty.
The Targaryen kings’ reign was marked by both triumphs and tragedies, including the infamous “blood rain” and the tragic events of the Dance of the Dragons. Despite their numerous challenges, the Targaryen dynasty remains a fascinating and enduring part of the “A Song of Ice and Fire” universe.
