Power and Pilgrimage
Archived: 26 September 2026
In 1051 Ireland remained politically fragmented, with regional kings dependent on kinship, warfare, tribute and control of inauguration sites. Áed Ua Conchobair expanded Connacht power by blinding a rival, defeating opponents, resisting Donnchad mac Briain and felling the Dál Cais inauguration tree at Mag Adhair. Munster, the Déisi, Uí Failge and Tulach Óg saw killings, expulsions and disputed succession. Raids demonstrated cattle’s economic and political value, while churches mediated aftermaths of violence. Laidcnén Ua Leocháin and his wife undertook pilgrimage to Rome, dying abroad. Ireland also sheltered Harold Godwinson, demonstrating aristocratic Christianity, maritime connections and involvement in Irish Sea politics.
