The Targaryen dynasty shaped the history of Westeros through conquest, dragons, and intricate political maneuvering. Tracking the list of Targaryen kings in order reveals how power shifted across centuries and continents.
This guide presents a clear chronology of the Dragonlords, highlighting key reigns and turning points. Review the timeline below to understand how each ruler influenced the fate of the Seven Kingdoms.
| King | Reign Start | Notable Event | House Seat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aegon I Targaryen | 1 BC | Conquest of Westeros, coronation in Oldtown | King's Landing |
| Visenya Targaryen (as Queen Consort) | 1 AC | Advice during early consolidation, Valyrian influence | King's Landing |
| Maegor I Targaryen | 48 AC | Faith Militant uprising, construction of the Dragonpit | King's Landing |
| Jaehaerys I Targaryen | 48 AC | Long peace, council reforms, dragon succession planning | King's Landing |
| Aegon II Targaryen | 103 AC | Dance of the Dragons, civil war over succession | King's Landing |
| Aegon III Targaryen | 131 AC | End of the Dance, first Dragonkin king after dragons dwindled | King's Landing |
| Daenerys Targaryen | 300 AC | exile return, liberation of Slaver's Bay, death in King's LandingMeereen, Dragonstone, King's Landing | |
| Aegon VI Targaryen | 300 AC | Post-war restoration, rebuilding the realm | King's Landing |
Origins of House Targaryen in Valyria
Before the Conquest, the Targaryens were a noble family in the Freehold of Valyria. They settled on Dragonstone long before the Doom, which gave them a unique advantage. Their lineage, blending dragonlords and bloodline mystique, shaped their claim to future thrones.
The Aegon I Conquest and Coronation
Aegon I Targaryen launched the unification of Westeros from the dragonpit in King's Landing. With his sisters Visenya and Rhaenys on dragonback, he forged strategic alliances and subdued rival kings. This campaign established the foundation for centuries of Targaryen rule.
Expansion and Consolidation Under Early Kings
Visenya and Aegon I strengthened royal authority by building the Iron Throne and codifying laws. Their successors expanded infrastructure, secured the Narrow Sea, and defended the realm against early rebellions. These decades solidified the image of dragons as symbols of legitimacy.
Civil Strife and the Dance of the Dragons
The death of Jaehaerys I triggered a succession crisis that erupted into open warfare. Aegon II and his rivals tore the kingdom apart in the Dance of the Dragons. Key lessons from this era include the dangers of unclear succession and the fragility of dragon-dependent power.
Dragon Decline and Political Adaptation
As dragons dwindled, rulers like Aegon III adjusted governance away from conquest toward administration. Later Targaryen kings relied on councils, hereditary loyalties, and marriages to maintain influence. This transition highlights the dynasty's ability to evolve despite dwindling magical resources.
Key Takeaways for Understanding Targaryen Royal Lineage
- Trace the list of Targaryen kings in order to see the evolution of Westerosi politics.
- Recognize how dragon availability influenced military success and legitimacy.
- Note the impact of succession disputes on the stability of the realm.
- Observe the dynasty's adaptability after the decline of magic.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which Targaryen king launched the conquest of Westeros?
Aegon I Targaryen initiated the conquest and was crowned as the first king of the Seven Kingdoms.
Which Targaryen ruler presided over the Dance of the Dragons?
The civil war during the reign of Aegon II Targaryen defined the Dance of the Dragons.
Which king was on the throne after the Dance of the Dragons ended?
Aegon III Targaryen became king after the conflict, marking the first Dragonkin rule without full-grown dragons.
Which recent Targaryen ruler attempted to rebuild the realm following major wars?
Aegon VI Targaryen focused on restoration and stability after the conflicts in King's Landing.