Glenmalure and Gaveston
Archived: 24 October 2026
In 1308, John Wogan’s defeat at Glenmalure exposed the vulnerability of royal power near Dublin, although administration continued. Piers Gaveston, Edward II’s controversial favourite, arrived as king’s lieutenant, combining political exile with military responsibility. Later campaigns against Wicklow opponents, including the Ó Byrnes, sought to restore authority through coercion and infrastructure. In Connacht, raids, broken peace agreements and failed hostages involved Ó Conchobair branches, Mac Diarmata, Ó Dubda and Anglo-Irish forces, demonstrating unstable alliances and dynastic violence. Stormy weather damaged people and cattle, while lightning struck Roscommon’s Dominican friary. The year revealed an uneven landscape where powers constrained royal government.