The reign of Aerys II Targaryen, the 'Mad King,' marked the end of the Targaryen dynasty's direct rule over Westeros, leading to Robert's Rebellion (282-283 AC).

King Aerys II Targaryen ascended the Iron Throne with great promise, but his reign gradually descended into paranoia and extreme cruelty, earning him the moniker 'The Mad King.' His irrational acts, including the execution of noble lords and the burning alive of Rickard Stark and Brandon Stark, ignited a rebellion led by Robert Baratheon, Ned Stark, and Jon Arryn. This conflict, known as Robert's Rebellion, culminated in the Battle of the Trident, where Robert killed Aerys's heir, Rhaegar Targaryen, and the Sack of King's Landing, where Aerys II was assassinated by Jaime Lannister. The 'Mad King's' demise brought an end to nearly 300 years of Targaryen rule, ushering in the Baratheon dynasty.