Druim Inasclainn Succession
Archived: 28 October 2026
In 879, Áed Findliath, northern Uí Néill ruler and king of Tara, died at Druim Inasclainn, modern Dromiskin. His death brought Murchad son of Máel Dúin to the northern kingship and Flann Sinna of Clann Cholmáin to Tara, reviving a northern-southern Uí Néill alternation. Annals also record deaths among regional chiefs and church leaders, exposing widespread succession uncertainties. Foreigners captured Armagh’s superior Máel Coba and lector Mochta, demonstrating ecclesiastical vulnerability amid Scandinavian maritime activity. Spring fodder scarcity, followed by autumn abundance, highlighted cattle’s economic importance. The year revealed decentralised politics, influential churches, local instability, and relationships renegotiated after royal change.