Glentaisie and Affane
Archived: 17 October 2026
In 1565, Ireland remained divided among powerful Gaelic and Old English lordships despite Tudor claims. At Affane, Ormond defeated and captured Desmond during a dispute over Déise, prompting concern at magnates waging private war. In Ulster, Shane O’Neill crushed the MacDonnells at Glentaisie, extending influence through garrisons and settlement, and alarming Dublin and London. The Crown advanced surrender and regrant by creating Donal MacCarthy Mór earl of Clancare, while Henry Sidney’s confirmation signalled intervention. Catholic organisation persisted through Jesuit schooling and Miler Magrath’s appointment. The death of scholar Tadhg Cam Ó Cléirigh also demonstrated continuing learned patronage amid political conflict.