Carn Conaill
Archived: 3 November 2026
Abstract
In 649 CE, Irish annalistic tradition places two violent political reversals in Connacht: the killing of Raghallach mac Uatach, described as king of Connacht, and the defeat of Guaire of Aidne by Diarmait mac Áedo Sláine at the battle of Carn Conaill. These were not incidents in the history of a unified Irish state. Ireland was divided among numerous peoples, dynasties and client kingdoms, while ambitious rulers sought influence through raiding, alliance, tribute and control of ecclesiastical centres. Yet the events associated with this year reveal how quickly local conflict could draw in rulers from across the island, and how