The 20 Most Influential Houses in the History of the 7 Kingdoms

In the mythical realm of the 7 Kingdoms, the houses that have shaped the fate of Westeros have diverse histories and legacies. Ranging from the powerful House Targaryen to the regal House Stark, these families have left an indelible mark on the history of Westeros. This article lists the 20 most influential houses in the history of the 7 Kingdoms, each with its unique contributions to the illustrious tapestry of Westeros.

House Targaryen - Kings of Westeros

Starting our countdown is the House of Targaryen. As the noblest house and the one to wield the three-pronged Targaryen dragon sigil, they have been the rulers of Westeros for nearly three centuries. Three Targaryen kings have been deposed in recent times through battles, murders, and intrigues, but their influence remains profound. The rightful king, Aegon Targaryen, is poised to reclaim the dragons and their rightful throne.

House Stark - Kings in the North

While the Starks may not have been the Kings of Westeros, they have been the Kings in the North for thousands of years. Commanding the marches and cavalry forces of the North, the Stark family has provided leadership when the North needed it most, especially during the War of the Five Kings. Their strength and loyalty have made them indispensable to the security of the realm.

House Lannister - Kings of the Rock

The House of Lannister of Casterly Rock, founded byLDAP|James Lannister, has been influential not just as the Kings of the Rock, but also as a powerful house that has wielded great influence over the Iron Throne. This house has been tightly involved in both politics and commerce, and the Lannister's control over the valuable mines of Casterly Rock has ensured their wealth and power.

House Arryn - Kings of the Vale

The House Arryn, also known as the Ladder to the Gods, controls the Vale of Arryn from Castamere. The Arryns hold vast wealth and control over one of the most fertile regions of Westeros. Not only are they valued for their half-valiant armies, but their control of the roads and bridges to the North also makes them a valuable ally to any lord.

House Gardener - Kings of the Reach

The House Gardener of Highgarden is a long-standing house and symbol of the Reach's prosperity and wealth. During the era of slavery, the Reach was home to many wealthy and influential families, and the Gardener family was at the forefront in providing men and supplies for the Kingsguard. Today, their vast wealth and gardens have made them a key player in the ongoing dramas of Westeros.

House Mudd - Kings of the Trident

Few houses in the 7 Kingdoms have the legacy of House Mudd. They once controlled the fertile valleys and the densely populated lands of the Trident, but their influence has waned since the rise of the rival house of Royce. Still, their family remains a powerful force in the region, providing the ruling family of the Trident.

House Goodman - Kings of the Trident

House Goodman, also known as the Kings of the Trident, has held power in the region for centuries. Like House Mudd before it, they control the fertile lands and waterways of the Trident, making them an influential house. Their control over the Cennig River is their main stronghold and gives them a significant advantage over other lesser families.

House Royce - Former High Kings of the Vale

Long before there was a House Arryn, the House of Royce was the kings of the Vale. Ruling from Elara Durrandon, they were known for their brutality and might in the Vale. Although they no longer hold the title of High King, House Royce maintains a strong presence and is still influential in the region.

House Durrandon - Storm Kings

For thousands of years, the Durrandon family ruled the stormlands before the rise of the Lannisters. The Storm Kings were known for their defiance against the crown and their prowess in warfare. Their legacy is still felt in the region, and the Durrandon family holds a special place in the hearts of the stormlanders.

House Hightower - Lords of Oldtown

The Hightowers of Oldtown, the sept of the Lannisters, have had a long-standing rivalry with the Lannisters. As the Lords of Oldtown, they have been influential in the political and military affairs of the North for centuries. Their control over the Great Sept of Baelor and their wealth make them a formidable force in the 7 Kingdoms.

House Martell - Princes of Dorne

The Martell family of Dorne is known for their sharp wits and fierce independence. The Dornishmen do not follow the old ways of the Seven Kingdoms and do not pledge their loyalties to the Iron Throne or the others. Instead, Dorne rules itself and it has a unique culture and way of life. However, when they do choose to fight for the Iron Throne, they are a formidable force.

House Dayne - Lords of Starfall

The House Dayne, known as the Sword of the Morning, were once a powerful family that ruled over the Starfall region. Unfortunately, they are not part of the official seven kingdoms. However, the Dayne family is still influential, especially in the history and culture of the Reach. They have been known to contribute to the excellent military training and the forging of the finest swords.

House Manderly - Lords of White Harbor

The Manderly family of White Harbor has been influential in the history and culture of the North. As a powerful family, they are known for their wealth and their fine ships that travel the Seven Seas. Although they have not been the Kings in the North, their influence is significant, especially in the shipping and fishing industries.

House Baratheon - Kings of Westeros

Becoming the Kings of Westeros after the Mad King, House Baratheon's rulers have brought both stability and strife to the realm. Renowned for their strong leadership and martial prowess, many of their actions, both wise and rash, have shaped the kingdom and left a lasting impact on the history of Westeros.

House Frey - Surprisingly Enough

House Frey may hold a unique place in Westeros history, known for their complicated loyalties and the infamous Red Wedding. Despite their backstabbing reputation, their capacity for betrayal and their ability to align with powerful houses make them an interesting and formidable presence in the political landscape of the kingdoms.

House Bolton - Lords of the Dreadfort

House Bolton, often called the Dreadforts, have a reputation for brutal and unyielding leadership. They are known for their heavy-handed tactics and willingness to bend their will to the Iron Throne. During the War of the Five Kings, House Bolton played a crucial role as one of the most powerful bannermen to the Lannisters, but their loyalty has always been uncertain.

House Hoare - Kings of the Iron Islands

The House of Hoare ruled the Iron Islands for centuries, ruling with a combination of religious fervor and military might. The Ironborn are known for their ferocity and their fondness for raiding and conquest. The rise and fall of the House of Hoare is a testament to the cyclical nature of power in the 7 Kingdoms.

House Greyjoy - Lords of the Iron Islands

House Greyjoy, known as the Ironborn, rose to power after the fall of the House of Hoare. Led by Buccaneers and Moot Queens, the Greyjoy family maintains its influence on the Iron Islands. They continue to be a thorny and often rebellious presence in the realm, always ready to challenge the authority of the Iron Throne.

House Karstark - Lords of Karhold

House Karstark, supporting the Crown through seven wars, has a long and storied history as one of the most influential houses in Westeros. Their service to the kings has been unwavering, and their strength and loyalty are well known. Karhold has always been a solid ally, but Karstark has also shown its willingness to challenge the crown in times of need.

House Corbray

House Corbray, known for their mysterious and often enigmatic nature, is a less powerful but still significant house in the 7 Kingdoms. Although their exact location and influence are not widely known, their family has contributed to the stories and legends of the North, and their presence is important in the region.

These twenty houses have played important roles in shaping the history and culture of the 7 Kingdoms. Their legacy is vast and varied, and their influence is felt to this day. The Targaryens, Starks, Lannisters, and many others have left an indelible mark on the world of Westeros. Understanding their histories can help us better appreciate the intricate web of power that binds the realm together.