Who are the House Bolton: History and Relations with the Starks

The House Bolton of Dreadfort is a prominent Northern noble house sworn to House Stark of Winterfell. Their lineage traces back to the Age of Heroes, when they were descendants of the First Men, making them one of the oldest houses in Westeros. Known for their brutal practices, the Bolton family has left a significant mark on the region, particularly in relation to the Starks.

Origins and Rivalries

The history of House Bolton is closely intertwined with that of the Stark family. Since the Long Night, the Red Kings, ancestors of the Boltons, were natural rivals of the Stark Kings of Winterfell. The Boltons have had numerous successes against the Starks, particularly in the famous Andal Invasion which occurred a millennium ago. At that time, the Boltons supported the Red King Rogar the Hunter, whose forces fought alongside King Theon Stark's men. Despite this alliance, the Boltons did not entirely abandon their barbaric practice of flaying their enemies, continuing to do so in secret in the depths of Dreadfort.

Strategic Alliance and Political Maneuvering

Over the centuries, the Boltons have often found themselves at the crossroads of political intrigue. When Lord Eddard Stark (Ned Stark) called the North to arms during the Roberts Rebellion, Lord Roose Bolton fought bravely in the Battle of the Trident. Following the battle, Roose Bolton advised Lord Robert Baratheon to slay the legendary Knight of the Kingsguard, Ser Barristan Selmy. However, Robert Baratheon, while a fierce opponent, chose to seek medical aid for Barristan instead of following the Bolton's counsel.

Leadership and Seat of Power

Currently, House Bolton is led by Lord Roose Bolton, who also has a significant influence through his legal bastard son, Ramsey Bolton. The Dreadfort, the ancestral seat of House Bolton, is situated northeast of Winterfell, the home of House Stark, making it a strategic stronghold in the northern landscape.

Notable Events and Current Status

In 133 AC, Lady Barba Bolton attended the Maiden's Day Cattle Show in King's Landing, but King Aegon III Targaryen chose to marry Daenaera Velaryon rather than Barba, which likely further strained any existing alliances between the Bolton and House Targaryen. Despite these political shifts, House Bolton has maintained its loyalty to the Starks, albeit in a tumultuous relationship marked by both enmity and strategic cooperation.

To conclude, the House Bolton of Dreadfort is a fascinating house with a complex history, deeply intertwined with the fate of the Starks and the broader politics of Westeros. Their practice of flaying enemies and their history of conflicts with the Starks provide a rich tapestry of events and reminders of the harsh realities of life in the North.