Naas in Flames
Archived: 17 October 2026
Abstract
In 1577, Tudor authority in Ireland expanded through garrisons, agreements and coercion, yet faced resistance and disputes over the burdensome cess imposed on the Pale. In Leinster, Rory Óg O’More opposed plantation in Laois after Crown forces received authority to wage destructive war. His followers burned Naas in May and later captured Crown officers, while reprisals intensified. A recorded killing at Mullaghmast exposed mistrust, although claims of a larger massacre remain chronologically uncertain. Elsewhere, officials strengthened control in Thomond and negotiated revenue with Brian O’Rourke. Catholic resistance, overseas plans, religious division and comet marked continuing Leinster conflict at year's end.