Did Aegon's Army Ever Go to Westeros?

In the vast and intricate world of Westeros from George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series and HBO's Game of Thrones adaptation, countless armies have battled for control over the seven kingdoms. One name that often surfaces in discussions of these conflicts is Aegon the Conqueror. But did his army ever venture to Westeros, and if so, who are we talking about and what roles did they play?

Aegon the Conqueror and His Conquest

Aegon the Conqueror (often referred to simply as Aegon I) was a pivotal figure in the history of Westeros. He defeated the Targaryen forces, the ruling family of the Seven Kingdoms at that time, and established the Targaryen rule over the entire realm. His dynasty, the Targaryens, had migrated from the east and brought dragons with them, giving him a significant advantage in his conquest.

The reasoning behind Aegon the Conqueror's decision to invade Westeros lies in the vast resources and power of the dragon enthusiasts. By 101 AC (Aegon's Landing), he had conquered Astaporo, Ghiscari, and Volantis after a period of twenty years, amassing an army of Freeborns, slaves, and dragons. These conquests provided him with a formidable force and resources to bring about his victory over the Targaryens.

The Golden Company and Young Griff

In a more contemporary setting, Aegon may refer to The Golden Company under the leadership of Young Griff (Aegon VI Targaryen), who is more closely associated with modern Westeros. The Golden Company is a mercenary force made up of Freeborns and slaves from Essos, with a reputation as one of the most well-disciplined and successful armies in the world.

Young Griff, currently uninvolved in the invasion of Westeros, has a well-known affinity for Westeros. His ambitious dreams include ruling Westeros as the new Targaryen king. Despite his interest and the company’s potential to bring about an invasion, it is currently focused on other ventures in Essos.

Other Aegons Among Westerosian Rulers

There have been other Aegons in the history of Westeros, though none of them directly invaded the realm. Aegon II Targaryen and Aegon III Targaryen, for example, were Targaryen kings who ruled during earlier parts of Westeros's history. However, they did not have armies from beyond Westeros.

The name Aegon often surfaces in Westeros for those seeking to claim the throne or those with a symbolic connection to the Targaryen dynasty, but none of them have ever directly battled for or conquered the realm with an army from Essos or beyond.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Aegon the Conqueror himself did lead an army from Essos to Westeros, but other Aegons mentioned, such as Young Griff and even the Targaryen kings of old, have not led similar invasions. Whether it's for conquest, wealth, or power, the desire to rule over Westeros remains a constant theme in the history of the realm, making these discussions as fascinating today as they were in the days of the Targaryen conquest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Aegon the Conqueror's purpose in invading Westeros?

Aegon the Conqueror sought to bring East and West under his banner, benefiting from the wealth, resources, and slaves of Essos to fuel his army and conquests in Westeros.

Can The Golden Company's Aegon VI invade Westeros?

Young Griff, Aegon VI, is uninvolved in the invasion of Westeros. The Golden Company, however, as a powerful mercenary force, could play a significant role in any future conflicts involving Westeros.

Are there any other historical Aegons who invaded Westeros?

There have been no documented cases of other Aegons, aside from Aegon the Conqueror himself, leading armies from Essos into Westeros to conquer the realm.