Archived: 30 October 2026
Abstract
In 778, securely dated through the Annals of Ulster, Ireland endured interconnected crises. Kildare burned on 11 June, alongside Cluain Mór Maedóc and Cell Delge, damaging ecclesiastical settlements central to worship, learning and local economies. Continuing cattle disease, deaths from want, an island-wide epidemic termed smallpox, and an autumn storm intensified insecurity. Political conflict persisted: Donnchad of Clann Cholmáin took northern hostages; regional kings died or were killed; and Breislén of Béirre defeated Fergal of Desmumu. Deaths of bishops and abbots, including at Fursa’s French monastery, demonstrate ecclesiastical networks beyond Ireland. The annals reveal intertwined religious, economic and political vulnerability.
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Archived: 30 October 2026
Abstract
In 775, Irish annalistic evidence records deaths of ecclesiastical and learned figures, including Scannal, Maicníad, Augustin, Adarchu and Forbflaith, abbess of Clonbroney, alongside a battle at Uilleann Guaire that killed Flann son of Cellach and Scannlán son of Fínnechta. Dates and details remain uncertain because medieval annalistic chronologies differ. The year also saw Donnchad Midi, king of Tara, devastate Munster, demonstrating coercive but limited overlordship. These notices reveal interconnected political, religious and intellectual communities, in which churches held economic and social authority, women could lead religious houses, and rural households locally sustained kingdoms and monasteries through labour, rents, and service.
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Archived: 30 October 2026
Abstract
In 774, Irish annals recorded political unrest, elite deaths, ecclesiastical change and lethal illness across a fragmented yet connected island. A disturbance involving Donnchad Midi, probably at Tailtiu’s major assembly, reflected his contested consolidation of Clann Cholmáin power in Mide and among the Uí Néill, though details remain unknown. Kings of Cruachain Ai, Cenél Fiachach, the Cruithni, Uí Fhidgeinte and Corcu Baiscinn died, illustrating regional succession. Obituaries for abbots, a bishop-scribe and an anchorite demonstrate churches’ social and political importance. A bloody flux killed Eógan son of Colmán and many others, exposing wider vulnerability. No Viking raids were recorded there.
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