Carn Fiachach and Bread
Archived: 30 October 2026
Recorded conventionally under 765, though Ulster’s chronology suggests 764, the year combined dynastic conflict, food insecurity and ecclesiastical change. At Carn Fiachach near Uisnech, Donnchad son of Domnall Midi defeated his brother Murchad, who was killed; Murchad’s ally Ailgel of Tethbae fled, strengthening Donnchad’s position in Mide. Annals also noted a shortage of bread, probably reflecting grain supplies, without proving a nationwide famine. Deaths included abbots and churchmen at Birr, Clonard, Clonbroney and Ard Braccan, kings in southern and eastern kingdoms, and retired Tara king Flaithbertach at Armagh. Together, these notices reveal Ireland’s fragmented politics, powerful churches and precarious subsistence.
