Anglo-Irish lordship – Emerald Archives

Athenry Battle

Archived: 24 October 2026

Abstract

In 1316, Ireland endured Scottish invasion, provincial conflict, destructive warfare and famine. Edward Bruce, supported by Ulster allies, claimed kingship but controlled chiefly the former earldom of Ulster; his Leinster raid exposed divisions among Anglo-Irish magnates without establishing rule. In Connacht, Feidlim Ó Conchobair defeated rival Ruaidrí, built a broad coalition and attacked Anglo-Irish lordships. On 10 August, William de Burgh and the Berminghams crushed Feidlim’s army outside Athenry, killing Feidlim and leaders, and destabilising Connacht anew. Meanwhile, famine compounded military devastation. Carrickfergus surrendered to Bruce in September, yet no power secured Ireland: regional rivalries, hunger and contested lordship persisted.

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1275 CE

Ruaidrí’s Escape

Archived: 25 October 2026

Abstract

In 1275, Ireland experienced regional conflict rather than a single national crisis. In Connacht, Tadc Ó Conchobair captured his brother Ruaidrí, raided Mac Diarmata territory, and lost his prisoner after Ruaidrí escaped with Conchobar Ó hAinlide, who was killed in pursuit. In Breifne, Art Ó Ruairc died at Granard during conflict involving Anglo-Norman forces. Annals also note killings among Gaelic kindreds, an Ulster victory over the Galls, and the deaths of bishops of Raphoe and Killala. Meanwhile, Edward I supported Justiciar Geoffrey de Geneville, ordering defence measures, an inquiry, and appointments. Sources caution against misdating events assigned differently in annals.

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Related Archive: Anglo-Irish lordship

Athenry Battle

Ruaidrí’s Escape