Mac Lochlainn
Archived: 26 September 2026
In 1166, Muirchertach Mac Lochlainn’s breach of a guaranteed settlement in Ulaid, including the blinding of King Eochaid, destroyed his authority. Abandoned by allies, he was defeated and killed. Ruaidrí Ua Conchobair of Connacht exploited the collapse, securing submissions, hostages and tribute from Dublin and regional rulers, while distributing wealth and arbitrating disputes. Diarmait Mac Murchada, deprived of Mac Lochlainn’s support and opposed within Leinster, was expelled after coalition campaigns destroyed his Ferns residence. He sought Henry II’s permission to recruit overseas, creating conditions for later Anglo-Norman intervention. Fires, church affairs, rural burdens, towns and royal patronage also marked 1166.
