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There is no exact beginning or end to the Pictish era.
The word 'Pict' was coined at the end of the 3rd century AD, but it clearly referred to a social grouping that was already well established and well organised.
After dominating most of what is now Scotland for at least 600 years, the Picts were gradually absorbed into the nation of Alba in around 900. Their 'disappearance' was caused partly by the disruptions caused by the Vikings, but mainly by their political takeover by a Gaelic dynasty from the west.
