Archived: 24 October 2026
Abstract
1287 in Ireland was marked by succession, local violence and deaths without island-wide upheaval. Thomas de Clare, lord of Thomond, died on 29 August, leaving his six-year-old heir Gilbert and placing lands under wardship. His death altered but did not end contested power around the Shannon; Toirrdelbach Ó Briain later raided Ormond and Limerick. In Connacht, Diarmait Midech Mac Diarmata and Gilla na nÉc Ó Mannacháin died alongside lesser rulers and clerics. Archdeacon Florint Ó Gibealláin was praised for learning. Máel Sechlainn Mag Oirechtaig was killed in revenge for broken loyalty. Misdated de Burgh campaigns belong to 1291, not 1287.
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Archived: 26 September 2026
Abstract
In 1200, Ireland remained politically fragmented, with Gaelic lordships, Anglo-Norman magnates and royal officials exercising overlapping authority. Connacht’s Uí Conchobair succession struggle dominated events: Cathal Carrach, backed by Munster Anglo-Normans, notably William de Burgh, expelled Cathal Crobderg and regained the kingship. Warfare devastated territories and churches, while raids in Tír Eógain and Armagh demonstrated shifting cross-cultural alliances; Áed Ó Néill defeated Ulidian raiders. King John reappointed Meiler fitz Henry as justiciar and confirmed de Burgh’s Tibberaghny holding, strengthening royal structures without establishing island-wide control. Clerical deaths and ecclesiastical records underline churches’ continuing economic, social and intellectual importance amid widespread conflict.
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