Sliab Fúait’s Northern Victory
Archived: 1 November 2026
Abstract
In 711, Fergal son of Máel Dúin of Cenél nÉogain defeated Uí Méith at Sliab Fúait in south Armagh, killing their king Tnúthach and Cú Raí of the Brega-based descendants of Áed Sláine. The victory strengthened Fergal’s authority in a contested borderland, though it did not establish national rule. Annals also record Cenn Fáelad, abbot of Fore, illustrating churches’ economic and political importance. Across the Irish Sea, Dál Riata defeated Britons at Lorg Ecclet, reflecting maritime connections. Annalistic date differences require caution, but together these notices portray competing kingdoms, religious communities and interconnected Irish Sea politics in early medieval Ireland.