<P> A Brythonic speaking kingdom dominated Galloway until the region until the late 7th century when it was taken over by the English kingdom of Bernicia . </P> <P> English dominance was supplanted by Norse - Gaelic (Gall - Ghàidheal) peoples between the 9th and the 11th century . This can be seen in the context of widespread Norse domination of the Irish Sea, including extensive settlement in the Isle of Man and in the now English region of Cumbria immediately south of Galloway . </P> <P> If it had not been for Fergus of Galloway who established himself in Galloway, the region would rapidly have been absorbed by Scotland . This did not happen because Fergus, his sons, grandsons and great - grandson Alan, Lord of Galloway, shifted their allegiance between Scottish and English kings . During a period of Scottish allegiance a Galloway contingent followed David, King of Scots in his invasion of England and led the attack in his defeat at the Battle of the Standard (1138). </P> <P> Alan died in 1234 . He had three daughters and an illegitimate son Thomas . The' Community of Galloway' wanted Thomas as their' king' . Alexander III of Scotland supported the daughters (or rather their husbands) and invaded Galloway . The Community of Galloway was defeated, and Galloway divided up between Alan's daughters, thus bringing Galloway's independent existence to an end . </P>

Where does the last name galloway originate from