Catigern, Son of Vortigern Timeline d. 455

Catigern was born the second son of Vortigern. He had an elder brother, Vortimer. There is no evidence as to when or where he was born.

Catigern’s father, Vortigern became a leader of the Britons after taking the position from Constans, young son of Constantine II. He may have murdered Constans or arranged for his death. Constans’ younger brothers, Aurelius Ambrosius and Uther Pendragon were taken to Brittany by a relative. It is believed that Vortigern was a title rather than his actual name. He may have been named Vitalinus before taking the title.

Battle of Guoloph (Nether Wallop)
Aurelius Ambrosius returned to Britain and fought Vortigern for control of Briton. It is thought that Ambrosius won this battle.

The Franks invaded Gaul and Ambrosius was called upon to help defend Gaul. He left Britain and Vortigern regained control.

Vortigern was facing attacks on the northern border from Picts and Scots. He called for assistance from the Jutish chieftans Hengist and Horsa to help him fight off the invaders.

Hengist and Horsa landed at Wippidsfleet (Ebbsfleet) in Kent. They brought with them a number of armed Angles and Saxons.

Hengist and Horsa joined forces with King Vortigern and supported him fighting the Picts in the north.

King Vortigern married Hengist’s daughter, Rowena.

King Vortigern gave Hengist and Horsa the Isle of Thanet.

Catigern’s brother, Vortimer, was unhappy about his father’s marriage and the fact that he had given land to the Saxons, and led a rebellion against him. It is now known whether Catigern supported his brother. The rebellion ended when Vortimer was killed. Some sources claim that Vortimer was poisoned by his step-mother, Rowena.

Hengist and Horsa were dissatisfied with the land they controlled and wanted to expand their territory.

Battle of Aegaelsthrep (Aylesford)
Catigern was killed during this battle between King Vortigern and Hengist and Horsa. Horsa was also killed in the fighting. It is not clear which side Catigern was fighting on but it is likely he was fighting with his father.